SPR is committed to investing in the regions local to our offshore wind developments and part of our supply chain development strategy is to work in collaboration with supply chain companies – from local businesses on the doorstep of our projects, to global companies around the world. We aim to promote the benefit of education, re-skilling, and the development of long-term sustainable employment opportunities within the industry to workers across the local region.
In our ambitious growth plans, local investment and economic benefit is key to our strategy. The MachairWind team will aim to work with local supply chain to leverage their knowledge of the region, as well as provide opportunities to enter the offshore wind industry for those looking to diversify their skill set and offering, which will maximise future opportunities.
We see education as an important way to add value to the region, by collaborating with existing local and national education and skill infrastructures and support initiatives that drive sustainable careers in offshore wind.
Supply Chain Fund
We’ve already confirmed that we will be investing £25 million in a Supply Chain Stimulus Fund as part of the MachairWind project. This is in addition to direct project investment in supply chain facilities and will directly support the Scottish supply chain. The fund will support investment in Scottish infrastructure and facilities for offshore wind and help companies innovate and upskill and become a key part of the clean energy future. Further information about our fund will be shared in due course, so keep up to date here.
Supply Chain Development Statement
Our Supply Chain Development Statement (SCDS) Outlook document – which we submitted to the Crown Estate Scotland as part of our bid to secure the project, can be downloaded here.
The SCDS Outlook sets out our supply chain and skills development plans for MachairWind and is underpinned by a comprehensive investment programme within Scotland and the UK.
We will be participating in a supply chain event in Argyll in 2023 where local companies can find out more about the opportunities available to them and how to get involved. Further information will be shared once the details are finalised.
The MachairWind team will work with local supply chain to leverage their knowledge of the region and provide opportunities to enter the offshore wind industry. We plan to take part in upcoming supply chain events in Argyll in 2023.
Socio-Economic Study
A socio-economic impact study is being carried out by Biggar Economics and is designed to map and assess what potential impacts the MachairWind project is likely to have on the communities and economies of Islay, Colonsay, Jura, and the surrounding area (in terms of tourism, jobs, housing, use of local services etc.) SPR will carry out a socio-economic assessment and the outcomes of it will inform what steps we take to ensure positive impacts are identified and any adverse impacts can be reduced. A socio-economic impact assessment will also be included within the project Environmental Impact Assessment as part of the consenting process. Updates will be provided on this study throughout the project as it progresses.
In the meantime, if you think your business could support us in any way – at any stage of the MachairWind project – please register your details on our supply chain database so that we know what services are available and where. You can register here and you can also email our supply chain team at: SPRoffshoresupplychain@scottishpower.com
Email our supply chain Team
Work with us
ScottishPower Renewables is keen to engage with interested stakeholders as early as possible with regards to upcoming opportunities in Scotland. If you are a potential supplier, please complete the form below to be kept updated as opportunities arise. Note that existing suppliers will not need to re-register.