Business

Missed opportunity for floating offshore wind in Wales

Published

8 months ago

September 11, 2023

THE CELTIC SEA DEVELOPER ALLIANCE, managed by Marine Energy Wales, has expressed its disappointment that no contracts have been awarded to floating offshore wind (FLOW) projects in the latest round (AR5) of the UK Government’s renewable auction, including Erebus, Wales’s pioneering planned floating offshore wind farm, which received the necessary environmental consents earlier this year.

The Celtic Sea has the potential to deliver 24GW of renewable energy through floating offshore wind turbines, and Wales has the potential to be a global player, but without support and backing from UK Government, the CSDA believes we are at risk of falling behind.

These projects are vital to meet the UK Government’s 5GW floating offshore wind target by 2030, and today is a huge blow to these ambitions and efforts to reach Net Zero.

In the UK, the Committee on Climate Change states offshore wind will become the ‘backbone’ of the future energy system, requiring 100GW of installed capacity by 2050. Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) is set to deliver 50% of that target.

The development of the sector has huge potential to drive regional development, new supply chain opportunities, thousands of high-skilled jobs and support the energy transition towards Net Zero, but today this potential has not been realised.

Tom Hill, Marine Energy Wales Programme Manager and Chair of the Celtic Sea Developer Alliance expressed his disappointment at today’s announcement:

“Today’s news is deeply worrying for the sector. The UK Government is not providing the confidence for investment that this industry desperately needs.

Unless the CfD process is reformed to move away from a focus on competition for the lowest electron, the supply chain in Wales and the UK will be disadvantaged, particularly at this stage, where developments are in their infancy.

The absence of offshore wind developers on the list of contract winners is also a huge blow for Wales and Welsh Government Net Zero ambitions. The fact that the Erebus project could now be delayed will have tremendous knock-on-effects on Welsh supply chain, ports and send the wrong message to the world.”

On behalf of its members, the CSDA is calling for:

The Crown Estate, Welsh Government and UK Government to clearly signal the scale and pipeline for FLOW within the Celtic Sea to inspire market confidence and attract the appropriate level of investment.
Investment in port infrastructure to develop the capabilities required to deliver FLOW and secure existing and attract new local supply chains, stimulating economic growth.
A Regional Development Strategy – The Celtic and North Seas are both developing FLOW but at different stages. It is essential to balance government support and ensure both regions have development opportunities and the chance to maximise supply chain benefits.
Upgraded Grid capacity – There is currently no grid capacity available to deliver the existing 4GW seabed leasing or anything beyond this. Electricity System Operator (ESO), National Grid and Ofgem must urgently recognise this requirement and invest in increasing grid capacity and improving infrastructure.
Cross border collaboration between Ireland and the UK – Governments in Wales and Ireland are already collaborating to identify strategic work areas to support FLOW and maximise socio-economic impacts. UK Government should also be supporting cross-border collaboration.

Commenting on the results of Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 5, which were announced today by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Co-Chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council, Richard Sandford, said:

“Although today’s auction results are disappointing, the offshore wind industry’s continued focus is working closely with the Government to reform the auction process so that we can secure far more capacity next year and beyond. The UK has the second largest offshore wind pipeline in the world, with more than a hundred projects at all stages of development.

“It’s clear that this year’s auction represents a missed opportunity to strengthen Britain’s energy security and provide low-cost power for consumers. If all the offshore wind projects eligible to bid into this auction had done so, we could have powered the equivalent of more than five million British homes a year. So, lessons must be learned to ensure that the parameters of the auction are set correctly in the future. The landmark report published earlier this year by the Government’s offshore wind champion Tim Pick shows how the industry can grow successfully in the years ahead.

“Our plans to accelerate the growth of this innovative sector in the years ahead remain ambitious and undimmed. We will continue to work with Ministers to build up a world-class domestic offshore wind supply chain around the UK, creating tens of thousands of jobs and attracting billions in private investment, as well as providing further opportunities to export our products and expertise globally. We are determined to get back on track to meet the Government’s clean energy targets and net zero goals”.

Business

Bluestone National Park Resort payments to county to end

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL to end a 20-year legal agreement for financial contributions associated with the creation of Pembrokeshire’s Bluestone National Park Resort has been backed by both the county council and the national park.

In related submitted applications to both Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Pembrokeshire County Council, Bluestone Resorts Ltd asked to end a 2004 Section 106 legal agreement, used to pay towards various projects including enhancements to works including footpaths and bridges.

Bluestone has paid nearly £320,000 to date, and offered two further one-off payments to complete the agreement, reports for the two authorities have said.

Works have been predominantly in the area surrounding Bluestone, but include projects as far afield as Nevern, Solva, and Haverfordwest.

A supporting statement says that, since the agreement was made back in 2004, Bluestone has paid nearly £280,000, with the offer of a final fee of £113,000 being paid, spread over 2023, 2024, and 2025.

A report by national park officers, ahead of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Development Management Committee meeting of April 24, where it was recommended for approval, said: “Having considered the information submitted, officers consider that provided the two final payments [the 2023 having been made] are received the legal agreement has served its purpose and can be discharged.

“In order to ensure the two final payments are made, a modification to the Section 106 legal agreement is supported. This decision is supported by Pembrokeshire County Council, who have received a concurrent application which is also recommended by officers for modification.”

The report said the £280,000 figure presented by Bluestone actually amounted to £318,703.87, taking into account a 2023 payment of £38,891.73.

It concluded: “The authority is satisfied that subject to two further payments of £38,000 to be made in August 2024 and August 2025, the obligation no longer serves a planning purpose and can be discharged and as such the obligation should be modified accordingly.”

At the April 23 meeting of the county council’s planning committee, members backed the application by 11 votes to two, following a recommendation for approval by Cllr Brian Hall.

The following day, the related application came before national park planners, with three members leaving the meeting as they had declared related interests in the item.

Cllr Rhys Jordan, who had also been present at the previous day’s meeting, moved approval: “The economic benefit of this facility is huge to Pembrokeshire; whilst these contributions may come to an end, the contribution to the county is huge.

“Bluestone has been at the forefront of all things hospitality, and everything they do is with the environment in mind.”

That application was unanimously approved by members present.

Business

Largest Welsh port appoints communications and marketing director

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE Port of Milford Haven has announced that Anna Malloy has been appointed as its first Communications and Marketing Director.

Anna is appointed to the Senior Management Team and this new role will be pivotal to the delivery of the Port’s long-term growth and diversification agenda and in ensuring that its obligations to coastal communities, future generations and to nature are honoured.

Tom Sawyer, CEO of the Port of Milford Haven, congratulated Anna and said: “Anna has a key role to play in our future and it’s doubly lovely to see ‘port-grown-talent’ flourish and for colleagues to progress up through our organisation.”

Anna will lead across the public affairs, marketing, sustainability, media relations, and community relations activities. She will therefore play a central role in the development of new and existing partnerships, including the Celtic Freeport, the Milford Haven Energy Cluster and the Celtic Collection; sitting alongside the delivery of major projects like Milford Waterfront and the Pembroke Dock Renewables Terminal.

“This is such an exciting opportunity. I am proud to be joining the Senior Management Team and look forward to delivering our ambitious strategy,” commented Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director.

She added: “The Port of Milford Haven is playing a key role in the transition of South-West Wales’ economy to a decarbonised future. A beautiful place, with great people, that I am privileged to call my home.”

Business

Welsh producers to showcase at UK’s leading food and drink show

Published

3 days ago

April 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WALES’ finest food and drink companies are gearing up to showcase their innovative spirit and exceptional quality produce at a pivotal show in the UK food and drink calendar.

The group includes 44 Welsh food and drink companies who will be attending the Farm Shop & Deli Show 2024 being held at the NEC in Birmingham between 29 April – 1 May. This event will serve as a prime opportunity for both established companies and emerging stars from Wales to exhibit their products to a national audience.

Supported by the Welsh Government, 13 of Wales’ well-known food and drink companies will be exhibiting on the Welsh Government Pavilion at the show. A further 20 Welsh up and coming and emerging stars will be exhibiting as part of the Cywain Showcase stand, while another 11 Welsh companies will be exhibiting for 1 day during the show on the Cywain Test Trading stand, these companies will change each day.

Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, said, “The Farm Shop & Deli Show provides unparalleled opportunities for Welsh companies to showcase the exceptional quality and innovation of their products. These events are crucial for promoting Welsh products and reinforcing Wales’ reputation for quality and innovation in food and drink.

“The Welsh Government is dedicated to supporting our producers, ensuring they have the platforms needed to succeed and contribute to Wales’ reputation as a place of outstanding natural produce. We are committed to helping them thrive in these important markets and continue to build on Wales’ esteemed reputation.”

Welsh producers exhibiting as part of the Welsh Government Pavilion includes Calon Wen Organic Dairy, Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits Ltd, Crwst Ltd, Golden Hooves, Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co, Mario’s Ice Cream, Morning Foods, Rural Foodies Ltd/Coco Pzazz, Snowdonia Cheese Company Ltd, The Anglesey Sea Salt Company/Halen Môn, Tregroes Waffles, Welsh Hills Bakery and Welsh Lady Preserves.

The 31 Welsh companies making up the showcase under the support of Cywain, a Welsh Government funded project that works with food and drink producers across Wales, helping them grow and develop their businesses, will feature products from alcohol, coffee, tea, chocolate, cheeses, rapeseed oil to preserves, sauces and spices.

Commenting on being part of the Welsh Government delegation, owner Alison Lea-Wilson from Anglesey sea salt company Halen Môn said, “We’ve attended Food & Drink Expo several times and always find it an interesting mix of people giving us a chance to stay updated on the food and drink industry. We’re looking forward to catching up with our current customers at the Farm Shop & Deli Show this year and are excited about the possibility of meeting new ones, particularly ingredient suppliers.

“It’s also our first time here as a B Corp business, which is a big step for us, and we’re launching our new Beetroot ketchup, adding a vibrant touch to our product line.”

Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits Ltd is set to feature their new Gluten Free range at the Farm Shop & Deli Show, with products ready to order alongside their traditional offerings. The company is also proud finalists for the Artisan Food and Drink Business of the Year at the Wales Food and Drink Awards 2024.

Reflecting on a year of innovation and growth, Allie Thomas from Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits said, “2023 was a pivotal year for Cradoc’s. We embarked on a journey of transformation, starting with a significant update to our packaging, which is our main sales tool and we invest as much as possible in protecting the authenticity of the Cradoc’s brand. Working with Zero2Five Food Industry Centre led to enhancements that resonate with our customers, emphasizing our Net Zero Carbon Manufacturing status and sustainability efforts.

“We have recently got the go ahead for our new gluten free bakery, which is testament to our commitment to inclusivity and innovation. We’re looking forward to seeing what visitors to these shows think of our new three gluten free flavoured crackers: Rosemary and Garlic, Chilli Ginger and Cumin and Cheddar Cheese and Chives.”

After a successful rebranding launch and a Farm Shop & Deli Gold Award win for their Traditional Mead at last year’s Farm Shop & Deli Show, Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co are set to showcase their modern mead to a wider audience at this year’s show.

“Our presence at the Farm Shop & Deli Show is testament to our growth and the significant demand for our products over the last 5 years, but in particular within the last 12 months which has seen us stocked in Selfridges and in 3 Michelin Restaurants” says Kit Newell, Co-founder of Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co.

“Our rebranding to Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co in 2023 was a milestone of our progress and our commitment to modernising mead. This year, we’re not just expecting to showcase our products to those unfamiliar with contemporary mead; we’re here to forge lasting connections with larger retailers and regional distributors, and to reaffirm our relationships with those who have supported us from the start. The Farm Shop & Deli Show is more than an event for us—it’s a platform to test the pulse of the market, to ensure our products resonate with current trends through direct consumer feedback.”

“Our achievements, such as winning the Golden Fork Award for Wales, are symbols of our dedication to quality and taste. Alongside our flagship wine-style meads and modern sparkling varieties we will have our special edition meads that celebrate and support bee charities such as Bees For Development, made using honey from forests in Zambia. Our Spiced Honey Rum, launched in February, is the newest addition to our family of products, and we’re excited to see it take its place in the spotlight.”

Also, within The Restaurant Show, there will be a Geographical Indication (GI presentation) and tasting taking place on the Restaurant Stage between 15:30 – 16:15 on Monday 29 April.

Farm Shop & Deli Show is packed with new launches, fresh industry insights and trend-setting food and drink to help you get face-to-face with the people driving the market forward in 2024.

Whether you’re an independent farm shop, delicatessen, or artisan food outlet, you can help grow your business along with your passion at Farm Shop & Deli Show. At the show you’ll find all the big ideas to help you discover fresh thinking and practical tips and techniques to increase your profits with our exciting line up of live events and sessions. The show will also reveal the winners of the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards 2024.

Farm Shop & Deli Show will run alongside Food & Drink Expo, National Convenience Show, The Forecourt Show and The Restaurant Show in 2024 as part of the UK Food & Drink Shows, bringing together the grocery, specialist retail, wholesale, foodservice and hospitality sectors under one roof. With over 1200 exhibitors and 25000+ visitors to five shows over 3 days, the event is a must-visit for anyone in the food and drink industry.

Other Welsh companies participating independently at the other shows include Cygnet Distillery, Dewkes Ltd, Gasm Drinks, Heartsease Farm, Meadowvale Foods, Peter’s Food Ltd, Brain Blasterz and Celtic Frozen Drinks.

Come and visit the Welsh food and drink companies at the Farm Shop & Deli Show from the 29 April – 1 May:

Welsh Government Pavilion | Hall 20 | Stands S160 & S170
Cywain Showcase Stand | Hall 20 | Stands S180, S190, S200
Cywain Test Trading Stand | Hall 20 | Stands S200

For more information on how the Welsh Government can assist your business with reaching new markets through trade event visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/foodanddrink/growing-your-business/trade-events