Gamesa has announced its intention to pursue a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Scotland's Port of Leith that aims to make detailed arrangements for the establishment of a major offshore wind manufacturing base in the U.K.
The MOU includes arrangements for blade and nacelle plants, port logistics, and operations and maintenance services.
Depending on market developments, the new manufacturing base in the U.K. would eventually create about 800 new jobs, according to Gamesa. Over time and subject to commercial opportunities, this would represent an initial investment of about 150 million euros, the company adds.
Gamesa's decision to pursue MOU discussions with the Port of Leith follows a detailed process to identify a partner port that would meet the company's manufacturing and operational requirements while providing the optimum commercial solution for the company.
This isn't Gamesa's first foray into U.K. offshore wind power. In 2011, the company established a new research facility in Strathclyde, and the company is in the process of moving its global offshore wind headquarters to its new London offices.
