Businesses across North Yorkshire are being brought together ahead of a major clean energy opportunity off the county’s coast.
The new North Yorkshire Maritime and Renewables Cluster will launch in September, connecting companies, education providers and young people with the growing offshore wind economy around Whitby, Scarborough and Filey.
It is designed to help local firms win work linked to offshore wind, while creating clearer career routes for young people and strengthening links between coastal communities and inland engineering, technology and training businesses.
Connecting businesses across the county
The cluster will serve companies involved in offshore wind, ports, logistics and education, with a particular focus on the developing Dogger Bank wind farm.
Organisers say early research has identified around 500 businesses across North Yorkshire that already consider themselves connected to maritime and renewable energy. The network hopes to bring in many more, including firms that may not yet recognise how their services could fit into the supply chain.
That could include businesses far beyond engineering and maritime operations. Experience from similar work in the Humber suggests that accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and food suppliers can all benefit when offshore projects bring workers and visitors into the region.
The shift also offers new opportunities for existing boat operators. While fishing has traditionally shaped the East Coast’s maritime economy, renewable energy is creating another source of work for vessels and crews.
Building skills for a new local industry
Education will be a central part of the cluster’s work. Organisers want school pupils and students to see that the clean energy sector can offer worthwhile careers close to home, even if they first leave the area to study or gain experience.
The project is being developed as North Yorkshire begins its involvement in the offshore wind economy. The Humber and Tees regions have already supported operational wind farms, while Dogger Bank is expected to bring the opportunity more directly to the North Yorkshire coast.
North Yorkshire Council has provided funding to establish the group. Its head of economy and tourism, Tony Watson, said the cluster could support economic growth, skills development and innovation by bringing together industry, education and investment across the county.
September launch events
Launch events are scheduled in Whitby at 11am and Scarborough at 3pm on Monday 14 September, followed by an event in Filey at 11am on Tuesday 15 September. An online webinar will take place on Wednesday 16 September.
The sessions are open to businesses and organisations connected to the maritime and renewable energy supply chain, as well as secondary, further and higher education institutions across North Yorkshire.
