(IN BRIEF) RWE’s Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, located on Dogger Bank off England’s northeast coast, is set to deliver £760 million in economic value during its development and construction phases, including significant contributions to Yorkshire, Humber, and the North East. The project will generate clean energy for 1.2 million homes, create 8,810 full-time equivalent job-years, and sustain over 80 long-term skilled roles during its 25+ years of operation. Community initiatives include engaging over 12,700 students to inspire renewable energy careers, supporting local charities, and fostering sustainability efforts like coastal clean-ups and marine ecosystem restoration. The project showcases the economic and social benefits of offshore wind energy, aligning with the UK’s renewable energy goals and strengthening local supply chains. RWE continues to lead the offshore wind sector with a portfolio of 10 operational UK wind farms and nine more in development, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the country’s energy transition.
(PRESS RELEASE) GRIMSBY, 30-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — RWE’s flagship Sofia offshore wind farm, located 195 kilometers off England’s northeast coast on Dogger Bank, is making a significant socio-economic impact across the UK. According to a new report by Wavehill Social and Economic Research, the 1.4 GW project will inject £760 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) into the UK economy during its development and construction phases, including £181 million for Yorkshire and Humber and £62 million for the North East.
The Sofia project is expected to create 8,810 full-time equivalent (FTE) person-years of employment, including 2,000 direct and indirect jobs at peak construction and over 80 long-term, skilled roles during its 25+ years of operation. By generating clean energy for 1.2 million homes, Sofia is a cornerstone of the UK’s renewable energy transition and an economic driver for local communities.
Tom Glover, RWE’s UK Country Chair, highlighted the project’s transformative potential: “Offshore wind is not just about clean power—it’s about creating jobs, boosting supply chains, and investing in communities. The Sofia project demonstrates how renewable energy can leave a lasting legacy for the UK.”
Sofia’s community outreach program has already engaged over 12,700 students, inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in renewable energy. Initiatives such as the Champions for Wind program equip local teachers with industry insights to guide students toward STEM careers, while RWE’s sponsorship of the Energy Central Learning Hub in Blyth and its apprenticeship programs support workforce development.
The Sofia Construction Community Fund has backed 23 local charities and projects, addressing challenges such as social isolation, poverty, and sustainability. Investments range from coastal clean-ups and mental health programs to supporting Whitby Lobster Hatchery to bolster the marine ecosystem and regional fisheries.
Sofia is part of RWE’s broader portfolio of renewable energy projects in the UK, where the company operates 10 offshore wind farms and is developing nine additional projects with a combined potential capacity of 10.5 GW. RWE’s experience spans over 20 years, with 19 offshore wind farms already operational worldwide.
By fostering local economic growth, creating jobs, and supporting communities, the Sofia offshore wind farm exemplifies the transformative power of renewable energy in advancing the UK’s green transition while leaving a lasting socio-economic legacy.
RWE
RWE is leading the way to a clean energy world. With its investment and growth strategy Growing Green, RWE is contributing significantly to the success of the energy transition and the decarbonisation of the energy system. Around 20,000 employees work for the company in almost 30 countries worldwide. RWE is already one of the leading companies in the field of renewable energy. RWE is investing billions of euros in expanding its generation portfolio, in particular in offshore and onshore wind, solar energy and batteries. It is perfectly complemented by its global energy trading. RWE is decarbonising its business in line with the 1.5-degree reduction pathway and will phase out coal by 2030. RWE will be net-zero by 2040. Fully in line with the company’s purpose – Our energy for a sustainable life.
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Mark Fleming
Media Relations
RWE Offshore Wind GmbH
Tel: +44 7825 608096
Email: mark.fleming@rwe.com
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First published in this link of EuropaWIRE.
