South Tyneside-based Metec UK has been awarded another project relating to the huge growth in offshore renewables. The contract to supply and install a 30-year cathodic protection system for what’s set to be the ‘UK’s largest offshore wind tower factory’.
Metec UK manufactures sacrificial anodes for the long-term protection of steel piles, offshore jackets and foundations against corrosion used in the port and harbour, and offshore renewable energy industry.
The fast-growing company secured a six-figure sum contract to supply and install sacrificial anodes for the development of the new quay in the Cromarty Firth, Scotland. The new quay infrastructure will be protected for many years to come by Metec DNV type approved product.
The company will provide around 400 Sacrificial anodes and Sealane Inshore, a commercial diving and marine civil engineering company, based in South Shields, will install them over the coming months.
Metec’s latest success follows hot on the heels of a number of offshore renewables contracts wins in 2020/21 – including over £6.5 million to supply the Dogger Bank Wind Farm phases A and B and a second offshore substation in France amongst others.
Established in 2016, Metec UK, which has manufacturing facilities in South Shields and Tunisia with representation around the globe, is a leading manufacturer of corrosion protection for high value subsea assets. Initially employing just six people, the company now employs up to 45 people within its business, with over 55% of its talent pool coming from South Tyneside. Metec has also taken on 3 additional full-time staff and 2 new apprentices within the last month.
Graeme Crow, Sales/Commercial Manager at Metec, said: “We’re delighted to win this latest contract for another important project in the UK, having worked on 14 port projects in the last 12 months.
“With Metec being a fast-growing company and with heightened activity to build new and develop existing ports across the UK to accommodate renewable offshore facilities, the future is looking bright for us and there is huge potential in the offshore renewables industry. It’s also great to bring Sealane Inshore along with us, championing another South Tyneside business and the North East’s offer in the renewables industry.”
Ryan Wilkinson, Director at Sealane Inshore, added: “We are pleased to be supporting Metec once again on another port project for the installation of a cathodic protection system. To share in Metec’s success is great for South Tyneside and strengthens our position as a local diving contractor for future growth.
“Sealane and Metec are two local companies with a strong sense of supporting local businesses whenever possible through shared success. The two companies have now completed a number of successful supply and installation of cathodic protection systems together by having a close working relationship.”
Cllr Mark Walsh, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economy at South Tyneside Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see two South Tyneside-based companies come together to work on such an important project in the UK and ultimately strengthening our place in the offshore renewables industry. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow over the coming years.”
