Blyth offshore wind training provider set to expand after funding

The Wind Academy’s director Geoff Briggs called it a “significant step forward” for his business

A Blyth training provider to the growing offshore energy sector its plotting its own expansion after securing funding.

The Wind Academy, which specialises in vocational courses for renewables industry, is set to extend its facilities at the Port of Blyth following the injection of more than £42,000 from the Business Growth Fund. It will support training infrastructure for wind turbine technicians working on offshore and onshore developments.

The Academy’s growth ambition is led by director Geoff Briggs and business development manager, Olly Hassan, who are broadening its training capacity and industry partnerships.

Mr Briggs said: “This funding is a significant step forward for the Wind Academy. It allows us to invest directly in our training facilities and ensure we are delivering high-quality, industry-ready training for the offshore and onshore wind sectors.

“As demand for renewable energy skills continues to rise, this support helps us grow sustainably and create real opportunities for people in the region.”

The Business Growth Fund support was delivered through Business Northumberland. Coun Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Wind Academy is playing an important role in developing the skills needed for the future of renewable energy. This funding will help the business grow, invest in its facilities and continue supporting the region’s low-carbon economy.”

Jon Paul Heron, business advisor at UMi, who helped guide the process, added: “It’s been a pleasure supporting the Wind Academy on its growth journey. This investment will help strengthen its position as a key training provider for the wind sector and support long-term economic growth in Northumberland.”

The Wind Academy is based out of the Energy Central learning hub at the Port of Blyth, which has recently announced its own major expansion programme in a bid to capture more work in offshore wind. Bosses this week set out a £100m vision which includes reclaiming up to three hectares of land from the River Blyth estuary at the port’s Battleship Wharf terminal.

The additional space and facilities will be marketed at wind farm developers and operators amid an expected influx of North Sea energy projects. The North East is well placed to benefit from the Government’s next offshore lease auction that could take place in 2027 and could feature predominantly sites off the region’s coast.

That round could bring another 6GW of wind energy to the UK though it is unlikely that turbines will be in place and turning before the 2030s.