In his ministerial address to Scottish Renewables’ Offshore Wind Conference at the SEC in Glasgow, the First Minister also announced a select group of three initial projects have been invited to move to stage two of the Strategic Investment Model – a collaborative framework with industry which fosters joint investment into offshore wind, supply chain and infrastructure – in a significant milestone for Scotland’s offshore wind programme.

With a world-leading pipeline, this week’s conference, headline sponsored by SSE Renewables, kickstarts a critical year of action to address the big challenges affecting the deployment of offshore wind and the success of Scotland’s supply chain companies.

From thought leadership to practical supply chain advice, the conference is bringing together industry experts, developers, suppliers and stakeholders to review the state of our offshore wind ambitions.

Speaking at the conference, First Minister Humza Yousaf MSP said: “The offshore wind industry brings substantial benefits to people living in Scotland and requires the government as a partner. It also promises to create thousands of high-quality, green jobs for new entrants and experienced individuals choosing to transfer their skills.

“There are moments when certain industries can stand confident that when they look ahead, they will see a future in which they play a pivotal role in securing the wealth and wellbeing of a nation - Scotland’s offshore wind industry is at that moment.

“Together, we can create the right conditions to attract investment, build the supply chain, recruit and deliver the infrastructure needed to ensure that these projects will thrive.”

Claire Mack, chief executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “Scottish Renewables’ Offshore Wind Conference 2024 is a world-class, must-attend event for anyone keen to play a role in the deployment of offshore wind.

“It’s exciting to see such a diverse set of voices coming together to look at the scale, pace and change needed to deliver the supply chain and offshore wind required to achieve net-zero. It is also an opportunity to highlight Scotland as a globally competitive destination to invest in a sector which is delivering benefits across the country.

“It is clear that 2024 is going to be another critical year for the collaboration and innovation which is driving Scotland to the forefront of the global clean energy race and I would therefore like to thank the First Minister for his continued support of our industry.”

Paul Cooley, director of offshore wind at SSE Renewables, added: “Today we have heard from the First Minister about the incredible benefits a burgeoning offshore wind sector could bring for Scotland.

“In particular we back the call to tackle the climate and nature crisis together.

“SSE Renewables is fully committed to that approach and we believe developments, like our 4.1GW super project Berwick Bank, present an early opportunity to demonstrate how we can build offshore wind at scale while delivering a nature positive outcome.

“As a business we stand ready to deliver – supporting jobs, supply chain opportunities and the meeting of vital green energy targets. And, as we stand on edge of what could be the largest offshore wind auction ever, we have an opportunity for government and industry to reset, and for the sector to regain its momentum.

“If eligible Berwick Bank could create up to 4,650 Scottish jobs, power up to six million homes and generate up to £8.3bn for the UK economy.

“We know Scotland could lead the world in offshore wind and deliver homegrown, renewable energy, whilst combatting the global climate change emergency. Now is the time to make good on those ambitions.”