Transforming coastal communities

Strengthening communities through offshore wind

Our projects are breathing new life into communities around the world, proving that reliable clean energy goes hand-in-hand with long-term benefits for people, the economy and the environment.

Over the past decade, we’ve invested billions of dollars into the communities near our offshore wind farms. This is helping to transform towns through investment in local facilities, the creation of high-skilled jobs and the development of competitive local supply chains.

In Gippsland, offshore wind is set to create thousands of jobs and economic growth to power Australia into the future – just like it did for the people of Grimsby in the UK.

Learn more about the Ørsted Gippsland Offshore Wind Farm

Case study: A new vision for Grimsby

Once the largest fishing port in the world, Grimsby experienced the effects of post-industrial decline as its main economy slowed. Working with industry, the coastal town has developed a new vision focused on offshore wind and the renewable energy sector. Watch the video below to find out more about how offshore wind is helping to transform Grimsby through sustainable, green growth and an economic ‘ripple effect’ that will continue for years.

Empowering a green workforce
By 2030, the offshore wind industry could support over 27,000 direct jobs in the UK and many more in the supply chain. To help develop the future workforce, we’re promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) related careers and partnering with national and regional training and educational bodies. For example, we’ve partnered with local education providers to deliver a three-year wind turbine technician Apprenticeship Scheme.

Investing in infrastructure
Ørsted has established a strong presence in Grimsby. Since we opened our office at the port of Grimsby in 2014, our continued investment, including a $19 million extension to our East Coast Hub operations and maintenance facility, has helped breathe new life into the dockside. The award-winning facility currently supports over 370 workers. 

Building strong supply chains
We’ve worked closely with UK companies to deliver significant multi-billion-pound infrastructure projects, helping to generate regional economic development. For example, in the Humber, our pipeline of orders has supported the development of a $600 million Siemens Gamesa blade manufacturing facility, employing over 1,000 people.

Leaving a green legacy
We’re supporting local social and environmental projects through our voluntary Community Benefit Funds, which provide approximately $2.5 million each year to deserving projects in the regions in which we operate.

Building an Australian industry

What benefits can Australia expect?

As the global leader in offshore wind, Ørsted is ready to help Australians reap the benefits of a clean energy transition. Our vision for Gippsland is a thriving green energy powerhouse – one that creates jobs, economic growth and local opportunities for generations to come.

Find out how we’re planning to help build an Australian industry