The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has opened its new Technology Development Centre, boosting opportunities for innovation in the UK’s offshore renewables industry in the North-east of England.

The £6.3m facility will provide testing, validation and demonstration for companies working on products and services to support offshore renewables – adding to the range of services already available at ORE Catapult’s National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth, Northumberland.

ORE Catapult chief executive, Steve Foxley, said: “We’re excited to open this fantastic new testing facility in Blyth – providing scalable and expansive development space for the latest innovators ready to power the offshore renewable energy industry.

“The North-east of England is already driving innovation and growth within the UK’s offshore wind sector, and this facility will serve as a vital tool for companies to develop the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions, helping the region stay at the forefront of the UK’s journey towards achieving clean power by 2030.”

The Technology Development Centre’s new facilities include a 1MW drivetrain test rig to evaluate rotating machine components and a mini electrical grid system where clients can test and certify the electrical compliance of their devices for any grid in the world.

A 100kW test rig, dedicated to smaller scale subsystems and early-stage proof of concept work, has also been set up at the site along with a dedicated laboratory to improve the longevity, reliability and performance of critical components working under extreme conditions.

The centre forms part of the Energy Central Campus, a partnership between ORE Catapult, Port of Blyth and Northumberland County Council, and aims to support the clean energy sector by providing education, training, and pathways to employment in the local community.

North-east mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “We now have even more great green energy jobs right here in the North-east as this brilliant new facility opens its doors. It’s yet more proof we’re a world leader in this industry.

“Just a few months ago I officially opened the Energy Central Learning Hub in Blyth nearby. This is how we’re investing, not just in technology and innovation, but also in the skills our communities need to get jobs in green energy for decades to come. This is a turning point for our region, and it is crucial we continue to support and invest in facilities like this.”

The 1,500sqm former paper storage shed and surrounding land was secured and converted with investment from the North East Combined Authority (£2m), the Blyth Town Deal (£2m), Innovate UK (£1.3m) and ORE Catapult (£1m).