The £3m state-of-the-art Dare Centre is the first of its kind in the UK. It will provide a unique opportunity for developers, researchers and wider industry to test, demonstrate and commercialise innovative digital and robotic products and services for the offshore renewable energy market.

As offshore wind in the UK gets ready to triple capacity over the coming decade, the adoption of robotics and autonomous systems will be vital in achieving the rapid expansion to reach net zero. These technologies are expected to play an increasingly important role in the offshore renewable energy sector, with the UK well-placed to establish a world-leading supply chain linked to their future development.

Stuart said: “I’m delighted to open the UK’s national robotics centre for offshore wind. Drones, robots and underwater vehicles can reinforce the UK’s position as the world leader in offshore wind, make us even more competitive, and keep turbines turning in even the...