£50M Belfast Harbour Wind Sector Investment

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy have officially announced Belfast Harbour’s plans to develop a £50 million Offshore Wind Logistics Terminal for DONG Energy. The letter of intent, signed by the partners in February 2011, has now been finalised and construction work to develop the 450-metre quay and 50-acre logistics centre has been awarded to the Northern Ireland based company Farrans (Construction) Ltd. The development is the first of its kind in the UK and the largest ever development in Belfast Harbour’s history. The custom-made facility, which is expected to create up to 150 jobs during its construction phase, will be used by DONG Energy to pre-assemble offshore wind turbines and their foundations for installation at wind farms situated in the Irish Sea. The first project will be to service West of Duddon Sands offshore wind farm – a 50/50 joint venture between DONG Energy and ScottishPower Renewables. Arlene Foster said: “Belfast’s Harbour area is well placed to become a major centre in the rapidly expanding offshore wind sector and over the next twenty years stands to benefit from the significant business opportunities that have been identified. This investment clearly demonstrates DONG Energy’s confidence in our local capabilities and underlines Northern Ireland’s potential to become a leading player in this sector. “In addition, it is expected that The Crown Estate will shortly seek Expressions of Interest for the development of offshore wind and tidal projects in Northern Ireland waters – another key opportunity for Northern Ireland companies.” Danny Kennedy said: “This key investment project will see the continued regeneration of Belfast’s docks and harbour area and provides the basis for Northern Ireland to benefit from a growing national and international renewables market.”