HIE welcomes BiFab announcement

HIE’s area manager in the Outer Hebrides, Rachel Mackenzie, said: “Today’s announcement by owners DF Barnes is great news for the Outer Hebrides. This further demonstrates the region’s capability to support the offshore wind sector. With its skilled workforce at Arnish, BiFab is in an excellent position to deliver part of this major contract and positions it as key player in the offshore wind supply chain.

“Long-term investment from HIE and the Scottish Government has developed Arnish into a world-class facility where excellent infrastructure and equipment match a superb natural location for renewables manufacturing.”

Ends.

A news release issued by DF Barnes today is available below:

MEDIA RELEASE

DF BARNES CELEBRATES GETTING BiFAB BACK TO WORK

Paul Wheelhouse MSP, Minister for Energy, Connectivity and the Islands joins senior executives from DF Barnes on visit to the Arnish yard

DF Barnes is celebrating its first contract win with the creation of 82 jobs at its yard in Arnish less than a year since taking over BiFab.

BiFab has been awarded a contract by GeoSea to produce piles worth up to £26.5 million as part of the Moray East Offshore Windfarm development.

Paul Wheelhouse MSP, Minister for Energy, Connectivity and the Islands said: "The award of this contract is great news for BiFab and the wider Isle of Lewis community. The Scottish Government’s continued support, and collaborative approach with DF Barnes, has helped secure, at peak, 82 good quality jobs for this yard. However, we have always been clear there remains hard work ahead to rebuild the pipeline of work for the business. It is essential developers and the wider supply chain look to utilise Scottish content wherever possible from the start, helping our indigenous supply chain become stronger and more competitive that is in the interests of the sector and economic impact is a key consideration as we consider future licensing opportunities and planning applications.

“A strong collaborative effort between the Scottish Government and industry is required to ensure that our vision for offshore wind in Scotland is achieved and we maintain our world leading position as innovators in this sector.”

Sean Power, Vice President Business Development DF Barnes said: “This announcement is the first stage in a long process that aims to develop and secure a sustainable business.

“We have made a long term commitment to BiFab and are actively leveraging our global skills and expertise to position the company for future growth.

DF Barnes is in discussions with the developers and contractors in relation to the Neart na Gaoithe (NnG) offshore wind farm.

Mr. Power added: “We are really grateful for the support we have received from the trade unions, local politicians and the Scottish Government and its agencies.   

“The high quality skills amongst the local workforce on the Isle of Lewis will be critical to our long term success.

“Although we are pleased to secure this work, we are working flat out to secure additional contracts.”