The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, in collaboration with the National Shipbuilding Office and The Crown Estate, has appointed leading shipbuilder APCL Cammell Laird to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the future market potential for UK-built ships in the offshore wind sector.

With global offshore wind capacity expected to surpass 850GW by 2050, the demand for Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) to support this growth is set to rise significantly. SOVs, designed to serve as mobile offshore operations and maintenance hubs, are critical to ensuring the effective servicing and upkeep of offshore wind farms. ORE Catapult's analysis suggests that hundreds of these vessels will be operational worldwide in the coming years, contributing to a global market worth nearly £35bn between now and 2050.

The UK, with its rich history in shipbuilding, faces a pivotal opportunity to transfer this heritage to emerging industries such as offshore wind, which is set to play a key role in achieving a Net Zero economy. The study will explore how the UK can enhance its vessel manufacturing capabilities, creating jobs and driving economic investment in local communities.

Lauren Hadnum, Clean Maritime Manager at ORE Catapult, commented: “We recognise that to fully realise the potential of offshore wind, the UK must significantly expand its fleet of vessels for turbine maintenance. Ensuring that as many of these vessels as possible are built in British shipyards is essential. This study will help identify the necessary steps to make this a reality, paving the way for collaboration between industry and government to advance UK shipbuilding for offshore wind.”

Linton Roberts, APCL Group Chief Technology Officer, added: “APCL Cammell Laird is honoured to lead the UK SOV Manufacturing Business Case Development study. This initiative marks a major advancement in strengthening the UK's position in the offshore renewable vessel manufacturing sector. We are committed to delivering a robust, evidence-based business case that will shape the future of sustainable shipbuilding and reinforce the UK's role in the global offshore wind supply chain.”

One of the key outputs of the study will include a feasibility assessment for low or zero-emission SOVs, recognising the importance of decarbonising the offshore wind sector and ensuring the sustainability of wind farm operations and maintenance.