The report said: “University of Hull staff have developed a wide ranging knowledge base across multiple fields of expertise to help justify areas of development and allow the university to act as a trusted source of market intelligence at a wide range of external events.”
It also highlighted the work of Project Aura. Led by the University of Hull and supported by the Humber LEP, Aura is a collaboration with global offshore wind industry players (Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, DONG Energy), leading UK research institutions (the Universities of Sheffield and Durham), Government organisation (ORE Catapult) and skills organisations (HCF Catch).
Aura’s mission is to identify and address key technical, operational and economic barriers to drive down the cost of offshore wind energy, support the growth and development of the supply chain for the offshore wind sector and promote and sustain the UK’s status as a world leader in offshore wind.
Giles Davidson, Aura Lead at the University of Hull, said: “We are delighted to have played a key part in this audit which demonstrates the strong offshore sector we have across the Humber and the North of England in particular. Aura’s aim is to foster collaboration across the sector to build a world-leading offshore wind talent and innovation hub to support this rapidly growing industry for the Humber and the UK. This report confirms that Aura is extremely well placed to capitalise on the opportunities presented and support sector development and UK potential to offer global leadership in this vibrant sector. This audit process has been an excellent example of collaboration in the sector.”
Lord Haskins, Chair of the Humber LEP said: “This report provided another opportunity for the Humber to further establish its reputation as the UK’s ‘Energy Estuary’ and a world leader in this sector.
“With the Humber at the centre of the UK offshore wind offer we have seen much change and success in this area of industry and we are determined to build on this through the Industrial Strategy.
“Innovation will be key for this, which is why we are working closely with the University of Hull in collaboration with business, other universities and institutions to strengthen the contribution our region makes. This will help the Humber to support the future growth of the sector, which will result in further local economic benefit.”
The audits are sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
Announcing the findings, Business Minister Lord Prior said: “The Science and Innovation Audits we are publishing today highlight the innovative strengths in regions across the UK and the significant growth and investment opportunities they present.
“Together with our record investment of an additional £4.7 billion for research and development to 2020/21, we are working closely with regional businesses and partners to ensure the ambitions set out in these reports are delivered to maintain our status as a science powerhouse.”
The full audit can be found here.