Wind turbine blades designed, tested and manufactured on the Isle of Wight have arrived at MHI Vestas’ pre-assembly facility in Belfast ready for installation at DONG Energy’s Burbo Bank Extension project. The first 6, 80m long blades for the 258 MW Burbo Bank Extension project have arrived at the MHI Vestas Offshore Wind pre-assembly facility in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The blades for the V164-8.0 MW turbines –which were designed, tested and manufactured at the MHI Vestas blade factory at Stag Lane, Newport- will be the first locally built blades to be installed at a UK offshore wind power plant. The MHI Vestas factory on the banks of the River Medina is where the unique skills and processes were developed that are necessary to produce blades on a large scale. CEO Jens Tommerup said: “It’s a significant milestone for the industry to see the world’s largest blades in serial production arriving in Belfast ready for installation. This marks the first time locally manufactured major components for offshore wind turbines are being used in the UK.”. “Through investment and collaboration with our partners in the Solent region, we have created jobs, increased training opportunities and stimulated growth throughout the entire supply chain. “We believe that our efforts reflect the stimulation and growth that the UK has targeted with the continued investment in offshore wind power.” UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark said: “By building a strong, competitive UK supply chain we are creating jobs, attracting investment, and providing the certainty and confidence businesses need. “We are committed to our world-leading offshore wind industry and now we have the first ever offshore wind turbine blades built in the UK by MHI Vestas.” Belfast Harbour’s Commercial Director, Joe O’Neill, added: “Belfast Harbour is delighted to welcome MHI Vestas and to have the privilege of handling the world’s largest blades in serial production. In 2013, we completed the development of a 200,000 m2 offshore wind terminal, the first bespoke facility of its kind in the UK in order to facilitate this style of operation. Supporting the growth of the renewable energy sector is something we are proud to be a part of and look forward to working with MHI Vestas to ensure the successful completion of the Burbo Bank Extension project.” Work at the pre-assembly site commenced in April 2016 and since then the first towers have been fully assembled, tested and pre-commissioned, ready for offshore installation.