OWGP signs Memorandum of Understanding with HIE at Global Offshore Wind

The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HIE at Global Offshore Wind 2026, marking a shared commitment to strengthen the offshore wind supply chain in Scotland.

Businesses across the Highlands and Islands looking to grow and compete in global offshore wind markets are expected to benefit from a new partnership formed today (17 June).

The agreement was signed by HIE’s Chief Executive, Stuart Black and OWGP’s Executive Director of Industrial Development Strategy, Alex MacPhie. It will help businesses across the Highlands and Scottish Islands access the support, expertise and opportunities they need to grow sustainably and compete in global offshore wind markets.

The partnership reflects a shared ambition to create a more connected support landscape for suppliers and strengthen coordination across the ecosystem. Announced on day two of RenewableUK’s Global Offshore Wind conference in Manchester, it supports wider efforts to help UK companies invest, scale and grow with greater confidence.

As delivery body for the Industrial Growth Plan, OWGP plays a central role in bringing organisations together around shared priorities for offshore wind supply chain growth, helping to create the conditions for long-term industrial development across the UK.

The announcement builds on broader collaboration already under way across the sector. OWGP has strengthened partnerships with Great British Energy, the National Wealth Fund, the Scottish National Investment Bank, the Crown Estate, Crown Estate Scotland, the Development Bank of Wales and Scottish Enterprise, helping to create a more joined-up ecosystem to support offshore wind growth.

Commenting on the new partnership, Stuart Black, CEO from HIE, said

“Offshore wind energy presents one of the biggest ever economic opportunities for the Highlands and Islands that will also strengthen community and population resilience in many rural and island locations. To fully capitalise on this, we need a strong supply chain. That’s what this memorandum of understanding is all about. We will be working together to make sure companies serving the sector have access to the support they need to grow and compete successfully in a global marketplace.”