Opergy Group has called for an “iconic, multi-million pound innovation hub” to be established in Harwich.
Harwich being close to planned offshore windfarms, comprehensive transport links, and the strong track record of Harwich International Port playing a crucial role in offshore wind projects are among the reasons why the town is perfectly placed to bring together a cluster of businesses and organisations involved in clean energy.
It also offers unique advantages for offshore wind, green hydrogen and the wider clean energy sectors, not least through direct access to significant UK and European offshore wind markets, reliable wind patterns, strategic port features and a robust offshore support supply chain.
Opergy Group, in collaboration with Tendring District Council, the University of Essex, and Freeport East, is therefore suggesting a two-phased approach, where a pop-up innovation hub is established at first, showcasing the town’s potential, followed by the development of a £10mn state-of-the-art facility. Crucial to Harwich’s transformation will be the active involvement of local businesses and organisations, including the likes of Hutchison Ports, RWE Renewables, the Harwich Haven Authority and Trinity House.
Recommended next steps include the formation of an Innovation Taskforce, helping to provide strategic alignment and oversee the growth of the respective innovation hubs; appointing an innovation champion or cluster development manager to lead the project and outline the objectives, milestones and key performance indicators; and securing funds and selecting the most appropriate site for the pop-up hub.
Welcoming the “excellent proposals” in the report, Freeport East Chief Executive, Steve Beel, said the plans were aligned with the broader Freeport East Innovation Cluster and goals of the Innovation and Skills Fund it has launched.
Beel continued: “The proposed innovation hub has the potential to be transformative for the area, complementing our efforts in establishing the Green Energy Hub at Bathside Bay. Leveraging our ties with government departments and various central innovation agencies, we are ensuring Harwich’s capability to contribute to the UK’s clean energy ambitions is recognised. We are committed to working with our partners to advance these proposals quickly.”
An event has been pencilled in for early 2024 in Harwich where partners will discuss with local businesses and others how the plans could be progressed. Those wishing to attend are being invited to register their interest by emailing enquiries@freeporteast.co.uk.
