ScottishPower Renewables, a leader in the green energy sector, has firmly established Lowestoft as the core of its UK offshore wind operations. With the acquisition of a new site in the town’s PowerPark on Trinity Road, the company is set to enhance its offshore wind capabilities and contribute to the regeneration of this coastal town. This £8 million investment underscores ScottishPower’s long-term commitment to the region and aligns with the company’s broader strategy to support sustainable energy infrastructure in the UK.
The newly acquired site, previously occupied by RJ Pryce, will soon be transformed into a dedicated operations and maintenance hub, with a capacity to accommodate around 100 employees. This development will primarily support the East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm, a major project currently under construction. Its proximity to ScottishPower’s existing operations base for the East Anglia ONE windfarm, situated at Lowestoft port, is key to expanding the company’s footprint in the region. While the new site will enhance its offshore capabilities, ScottishPower continues its operations on the 30-year lease at the port, ensuring seamless synergy between the two facilities.
ScottishPower’s CEO, Charlie Jordan, has highlighted the significance of this investment, noting that it is not only a financial boost for Lowestoft but also an affirmation of the town’s vital role in the UK’s clean energy landscape. “Our continued commitment and investment in Lowestoft highlights the town’s role as a powerhouse for the clean energy industry within the East of England region and we’re here to stay,” he stated. Jordan further emphasised the long-term environmental and economic impact, with windfarm projects set to benefit millions of people through cleaner energy and job creation in the local area.
This strategic investment comes at a pivotal moment, as the clean energy sector continues to expand across the UK. The development of the Trinity Road site reinforces ScottishPower’s growing presence in East Anglia, a region increasingly recognised for its potential in renewable energy. Lowestoft, a historic port town, stands to gain significant economic advantages as it becomes a central hub for the company’s offshore wind projects.
Ross Ovens, Managing Director for Offshore Development and Operations at ScottishPower, noted the broader community benefits that accompany this development. “It’s really exciting that, six years after we put a spade in the ground and built our EA ONE base in Lowestoft, we’re now increasing our footprint, presence and investment in the town. That doesn’t just support ScottishPower’s offshore wind projects and pipeline, it will make a long and lasting difference for local people and communities.” Ovens reiterated the company’s commitment to Lowestoft’s transformation, underlining how such initiatives contribute to local regeneration, economic growth, and job creation.
This significant expansion in Lowestoft has also garnered support from local political figures. Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft, hailed the investment as transformative for the town. She remarked, “ScottishPower’s decision to establish Lowestoft as a long-term hub for its UK offshore wind operations is a game-changer for our town, bringing significant economic opportunities. With a multi-million-pound investment, this project will not only support our windfarms, but also create local jobs, boosting employment in green energy.” Asato pointed to the long-term benefits for the town, with the potential to cement Lowestoft’s position as a leader in the UK’s clean energy sector.
This ambitious development is set to strengthen Lowestoft’s role as a key player in the nation’s renewable energy future. By anchoring its operations in the town, ScottishPower demonstrates its confidence in the region’s ability to support the growing offshore wind industry. With projects like East Anglia THREE on the horizon, the company’s multi-million-pound investment is poised to deliver both immediate and long-term benefits, from job creation to cleaner, sustainable energy for millions across the UK.
