UK Manufacturing Technology for Next Generation Wind Turbines: Composites Phase 2

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BEIS is considering procuring work under Phase 2 of the ‘UK Manufacturing Technology for Next Generation Wind Turbines’, to further explore incorporating radically new composite-based components and lightweight designs in 20MW+ offshore wind turbines. Scope of Phase 2 would build on the feasibility studies carried out by the Offshore Wind Energy Catapult (OREC) and the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Phase 1: -Develop a turbine design architecture to assess and prioritise the value of replacing components with alternatives using advanced composite materials and manufacturing techniques -Engage with the UK based supply chain to identify barriers and develop solutions in design and manufacturing to deliver in a UK context -Integrate the findings and produce a business case containing evidence on the value of undertaking work in a potential Phase 3 Lot 1: BEIS is seeking market input to find a suitable Delivery Partner (DP) and a procurement route for the programme. The DP would be expected to: -Demonstrate technical expertise and operational knowledge in offshore wind and composite materials industries to develop designs and specifications -Engage neutrally with the market and the UK supply chain to assess the barriers and enablers for increasing composites use in the UK’s offshore wind supply chain -Project manage the delivery and integration of the findings to deliver a business case for a potential Ph3 (demonstration) -As a minimum, make available to all bidders competing in potential Ph3 the IP and all key information developed in Ph2. BEIS reserves its right to exclude the DP from involvement in Ph3 if it is considered that there is no other way of maintaining a level playing field -Demonstrate how the designs and specifications developed in Ph2 can be manufactured and delivered within the UK based supply chain. Additional information: A Market Engagement Event for organisations interested in finding out more about the programme will take place on 24th May. The event will be hosted online and will be recorded. Please register your interest by e-mailing renewables.innovation@beis.gov.uk, with the e-mail subject “NZIP Composites Phase 2 – Delivery Partner”. Please include your email address, company and job role.