Two Norfolk-based marine companies are set to play a pivotal role in the construction of one of the world’s largest offshore windfarms, after securing multi-million-pound vessel agreements with ScottishPower Renewables.
The green energy firm, part of the Iberdrola Group, has signed charter agreements worth over £16 million with Caister-based NR Marine Services and Great Yarmouth-based OEG to support construction of the East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm, which is due to begin operations in 2026.
The vessels will operate from the port of Lowestoft, enhancing the region’s growing reputation as a hub for clean energy infrastructure.
UK-Built, Low-Emission Fleet
NR Marine Services will supply two crew transfer vessels (CTVs) – the NR Rebellion and the NR Hunter. The NR Rebellion, a 25-metre hybrid Typhoon Class vessel, was built by Diverse Marine on the Isle of Wight and boasts reduced emissions and fuel consumption. It is capable of transporting up to 24 personnel at speeds of 26 knots, with a range of 1,000 nautical miles.
It will be the first vessel of its kind to be used across Iberdrola’s global operations.
OEG will provide the support vessel Tess, which will carry out guard operations at the windfarm. Designed for extended sea deployment, the Tess enhances safety and monitoring at the site throughout construction.
A Boost for Local Industry
Ross Ovens, Managing Director for Offshore at ScottishPower Renewables, said the partnerships reflect the strength and capability of the local marine sector:
“It’s fantastic to have NR Marine Services and OEG on board – supporting East Anglia THREE right on their doorstep, bringing investment and opportunity to the region, and contributing to a cleaner and greener future.
“These charter agreements show how the East of England can serve not just UK offshore wind projects, but those across the globe.”
Owen Nutt, Director of NR Marine Services, said the deal marks a major milestone:
“This is the biggest charter we’ve ever signed, and a real show of confidence in what this region can offer the offshore wind industry.
We’ve doubled our fleet and headcount in the past year alone – including more local recruitment – thanks to support from partners like ScottishPower.”
George Moore, Business Development Director at OEG, added:
“This contract further strengthens our roots in the East of England and our commitment to building a robust local supply chain. We now look forward to delivering a safe and efficient project.”
Powering the Future
Once operational, East Anglia THREE will be ScottishPower Renewables’ largest ever offshore windfarm, producing 1.4GW of clean energy – enough to power the equivalent of 1.3 million UK homes. It will also become the second-largest offshore windfarm in the world.
The project underscores the UK’s growing offshore wind capabilities and highlights how local partnerships can play a key role in delivering national clean energy goals.
More updates on the East Anglia THREE development are expected in the coming months.
