Over forty organisations will come together today with the aim of maximising the potential of offshore wind energy in the northern seas.

The new network, called Norstec, was announced by David Cameron at the Clean Energy Ministerial in April.

The organisations which have joined the network include manufacturers, developers, supply-chain firms, researchers and industry-bodies.

Norstec is holding its first full meeting in London today, focusing on examining the role the network can play within the area of offshore wind energy.

Norstec intends to articulate the scale of the opportunity to the public, businesses and political spheres, while promoting the benefits of clean energy in Europe’s northern seas.

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David Cameron said: "I continue to be strongly supportive of the UK offshore renewables sector and am delighted to see Norstec rising from the waves. As I said when I launched this network last April we are on the cusp of a second, clean energy revolution in the North Sea. Close collaboration between industry and government will be critical to making this happen."

Edward Davey, Energy and Climate Change Secretary, said: "The offshore wind industry represents a massive growth opportunity for the UK and our neighbours around the northern seas, bringing jobs and re-energising once thriving industrial heartlands on the East Coast and beyond.

"I am determined that we work closely with North Seas governments, businesses and academics to make the most of our plentiful offshore renewable resources."

He added: "Norstec will help the offshore wind industry in the northern seas to grow and create a new industrial revolution, driving economic growth across this part of Europe. I’m delighted to see the potential for offshore wind deployment in the northern seas set out so clearly and vividly."

(IT/GK)