Once up and running in 2023, the steelworks-turned-blade production plant will manufacture 107 m-long turbine blades, part of GE's Haliade-X offshore wind turbines.
The redeveloped area will feature a heavy lift quay, with space for up to three offshore wind manufacturers.
The investment is expected to create 750 direct and 1,500 indirect jobs.
Blades produced at the plant will be used in the construction of the 3.6 GW Dogger Bank Wind Farm, situated some 130 km off Teesside's coast.
"This announcement further strengthens the reputation of Teesport and the first-class businesses that operate within the port complex along the River Tees - renowned as a national leader in renewable energy. In 2020, the Tees Valley received UK Government Core Status as a Centre of Renewable Engineering, which combined with direct access to the North Sea, deep water facilities, skilled labour, world-class infrastructure and supply chains, will undoubtedly be a catalyst for further major growth in this sector," Jerry Hopkinson, COO and Vice Chairman, PD Ports (the port company managing Teesport), said.
He furthered, "GE's commitment to the region builds on the number of world-class offshore manufacturers based in Teesport, including industry leading JDR Cables in Hartlepool, Middlesbrough-based Wilton Engineering and Able UK’s Seaton Port - the marshalling base for the world's biggest wind farm, Triton Knoll [587 MW of installed capacity], assembling 90 turbines at its Hartlepool yard."
Jerôme Pécresse, President and CEO, GE Renewable Energy, also commented, "This new plant will contribute to the development of an industrial cluster dedicated to offshore wind in the North East of England. We are delighted to announce such a commitment for the renewable energy industry, we believe it will help develop a strong talent pool through the hiring and more importantly training of future colleagues. The UK's target to commission 40 GW of offshore wind by 2030 is ambitious and requires that we invest in local production capabilities to accompany this effort."
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson summed up, "Teesside will continue to drive forward our green industrial revolution as we capitalise on new opportunities to produce clean energy through a brand new offshore wind port on the River Tees. It will not only create thousands of jobs and harness the skills and expertise of this great industrial heartland, but also boost investment into the area as we build back greener."
Photo: GE Renewable Energy