Siemens reveals UK wind plans

Siemens expects to tap Britain’s growing demand for offshore wind turbines and create more than 700 jobs by building a new £80m production plant in the UK.

By 2020, offshore wind projects with a combined capacity of 32GW will be implemented in the UK.

Peter Löscher, president and chief executive officer of Siemens, said: ‘With the new wind turbine production plant in the UK we’re pushing ahead with our strategy of investments in attractive growth markets for eco-friendly technology.

’In the foreseeable future the wind power market in the UK will be characterised by major offshore projects, and we’ll extend our market leadership with the new production plant.’

Siemens says it is currently appraising the suitability of potential sites for the production plant, both on the east coast and in the northeast of the UK, with attention focused on harbour infrastructure.

Energy secretary Ed Miliband said: ’This is a vote of confidence from one of the foremost companies in the offshore wind sector, looking to set up a base in the UK.

’More proof that we’re exploiting the great natural resource that we have and creating the right conditions to attract investment. Siemens’ investment will help create jobs and help us meet our renewable energy targets.’