Wind Turbine Manufacture – Gamesa Intends Major UK Offshore Facility

Global wind turbine manufacturer, Gamesa negotiating major offshore manufacturing base in Port of Leith, Scotland

Gamesa, a global technology leader in the wind energy industry, announces its intention to pursue an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with the Port of Leith, which would be aimed at agreeing detailed arrangements for the establishment of a major offshore manufacturing base in the UK (including blade and nacelles plants, port logistics and O&M services). Subject to MOU agreement, this would form an important part of Gamesa's long term strategic relationship with the UK and a commitment to establishing the UK as the centre of Gamesa's global offshore wind operations.

Gamesa's decision to pursue MOU discussions with the Port of Leith follows a detailed process to identify a partner port which would meet the Company's manufacturing and operational requirements whilst providing the optimum commercial solution for the Company. Gamesa is grateful to a wide range of Ministers and governmental authorities at all levels across the UK for advice and support throughout this process.

Successful completion of MOU negotiations would mark a further stage in Gamesa's engagement in the UK. In 2011, Gamesa established a new R&D facility in Strathclyde, currently employing over 60 engineers, which is steadily growing and is expected to employ 180 people. The Company is in the process of moving its global offshore wind headquarters to its new London offices with an expected head-count of 70 staff.