Ørsted Strengthens Humber Energy Board Amid Major Offshore Wind Investments
Ørsted, a leading global offshore wind developer, has become the latest member of the Humber Energy Board (HEB), joining a consortium of 17 prominent energy organisations committed to advancing the Humber region’s energy sector. The company’s involvement bolsters HEB’s efforts to attract investment, secure policy backing, and promote sustained economic growth.
With 12 offshore wind farms operating across the UK, Ørsted has invested over £18 billion in the country’s clean energy infrastructure. A significant portion of this investment, nearly £10 billion, has been directed to the Humber area, where Ørsted maintains its East Coast Hub in Grimsby and manages key projects such as Hornsea One, Two, and the under-construction Hornsea Three.
Dr Iain Harris, Managing Director of HEB, welcomed Ørsted’s membership, stating: “Ørsted has made a huge contribution to the Humber’s economy for many years now, and we’re delighted to welcome them as the newest member of the Humber Energy Board.” He emphasised the diverse and robust nature of the board’s membership as evidence of the energy sector’s substantial impact and potential in the region. Dr Harris called on the Government to provide clear policies and funding to fully unlock the Humber’s capacity as a leading energy cluster and economic powerhouse.
Looking ahead, Ørsted anticipates that Hornsea Three will begin operations in 2027, at which point the company will supply approximately 10% of the UK’s electricity. Beyond its offshore wind farms, Ørsted has invested over £40 million in local community initiatives, including education and skills development programmes. Over the past eight years, the company has trained 75 apprentices, contributing to workforce development essential for the UK’s energy transition.
Ørsted’s community engagement extends to sponsorship and charitable partnerships. It has been the main sponsor of the Great Grimsby 10k race since its inception 11 years ago and has committed £1 million alongside the national youth charity OnSide to establish the Horizon Youth Zone, a facility dedicated to providing young people with safe recreational and skill-building opportunities.
Emma Toulson, Head of UK Stakeholder Relations at Ørsted, commented: “We’re really pleased to be joining the Humber Energy Board and to be working alongside so many organisations that share our ambition for the region.” She highlighted the Humber’s central role in Ørsted’s UK offshore wind operations over nearly two decades, noting the company’s commitment to supporting skilled jobs and delivering lasting community benefits from its Grimsby base.
Joining HEB represents a strategic step for Ørsted, allowing it to contribute its expertise and regional experience to a collective effort championing investment, clean growth, and the Humber’s critical role in the UK’s energy future. The company’s membership builds on its longstanding position as Industry Champion of the Humber Offshore Wind Cluster and reinforces its status as a major investor and employer in the region.
HEB has expanded significantly in 2026, adding six new members in May, including Shell UK, Siemens Energy, Exolum, National Gas, Northern Endurance Partnership, and CATCH. Together, the board’s 17 members advocate for the Humber as a prime location for investment and a vital contributor to the UK’s energy supply, security, and transition to clean technologies.
