A new partnership between RWE and Tata Steel could see high-tech floating wind turbines in the Celtic Sea made with Port Talbot steel.
Wales' largest renewable energy operator and the UK's largest steelmaker will work together to explore the production of steel components for foundations and structures used in the commercial-scale floating offshore wind farm off the Welsh coast.
The components would be supplied by Tata Steel's steelworks in Port Talbot in a move the two companies said would support the UK's transition to renewable energy by 2035 and grow the Welsh economy.
RWE is proposing to deploy a pipeline of gigawatt-scale floating wind projects in the Celtic Sea as part of The Crown Estate's upcoming leasing round.
The two parties will provide technical assistance and expertise to The Crown Estate if needed as part of the Celtic Sea leasing process.
If successful, the projects will play a key role in RWE's Pembroke Net Zero Centre and support the transition to net zero in South Wales.
ABP and the Port of Milford Haven are also developing plans for new infrastructure at Port Talbot and Pembroke Dock which could service the pipeline off the Welsh coast.
Tom Glover, UK country chair of RWE, said: "RWE is working with the Welsh Government and industry to support the country’s transition to meet its electricity needs with renewable energy by 2035.
"Not only will floating wind deployment in the Celtic Sea provide a renewable and sustainable energy source, but it will also generate widespread opportunities for economic growth in Wales, protecting and creating new jobs and supply chain opportunities."
He added: "The co-operation agreement with Tata Steel exemplifies our commitment to utilising local supply chains and expertise to maximize benefits for the region.”
Chief commercial officer for Tata Steel UK Anil Jhanji said: "Steel-making in the UK played an integral role in supporting the acceleration of the industrial revolution in the late 19th century, and the industry once again will play its part in driving the UK through the ‘Green Industrial Revolution’.
"Whilst we cherish our history, we eagerly welcome the new opportunities which steel continues to offer, and through innovative technical solutions, we have the ambition to produce net-zero steel by 2050 at the latest, and to have reduced our CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030. We are also proud to have a product portfolio that will support the UK in securing domestic renewable energy through sectors such as floating offshore wind."
