Professional Engineering

Plans to locate a multimillion pound offshore wind renewables base in Scotland could create hundreds of new jobs.

Energy engineering giant Doosan Power Systems announced its intention to locate a research and development centre at its current site at Westway in Renfrew.

Working under a formal agreement with Scottish Enterprise, the move will initially create up to 200 jobs. Subject to further discussions, a second phase could see the establishment of assembly and manufacturing facilities.

In the next 10 years, Doosan expects its offshore wind plans in Scotland to generate 1,700 new jobs – of which the company would directly recruit approximately 700, with a further 1,000 employed in the supply chain.

Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond welcomed the news. He said: “Doosan Power Systems is one of the world's leading energy technology and engineering companies and I'm delighted they have decided to locate their centre in Renfrew, Scotland, to develop the next generation of offshore wind turbines.

“I'm also excited by the prospect of Doosan establishing a manufacturing facility in Scotland – today's announcement by the company is an important step towards that and towards many hundreds more jobs that will be created beyond the 200 posts announced today.

“This latest multimillion pound offshore wind investment announcement underlines Scotland's growing reputation for excellence and innovation in clean energy design and engineering.

“It is another great stride forward for the renewables industry in Scotland – which is now the chosen destination for three energy engineering giants to design their next generation of turbines to service the global offshore wind industry."

Jean-Michel Aubertin, chief executive officer of Doosan Power Systems, said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our successful partnership with Scottish Enterprise.

“Together we hope to develop cutting-edge wind power technology that will enhance the role of renewables in the energy mix.

“This also is great news for Scotland's economy in terms of jobs and inward investment.

“Doosan's current wind power portfolio and position with the industry will continue to grow strongly over the coming years."

Separately, the First Minister announced that Steel Engineering, also based at Westway, will create a least 120 new jobs, supported by £1.8 million regional selective assistance through Scottish Enterprise.

Skills Development Scotland is in discussions with Steel Engineering about a planned training school which will be named the Renewable Energy Steel Trades Academy.

In partnership with Anniesland College, the company plans to provide intensive and exclusive training tailored to the latest fabrication techniques, and welding procedures required by the renewables industry.