The expansion of Teesside’s renewable energy infrastructure has reached a new milestone as Steel River Quay ramps up operations to support the development of the world’s largest offshore wind farm. The South Bank facility is currently managing the arrival of mammoth monopile foundations for Ørsted’s Hornsea 3 project, signalling a period of sustained high-volume activity at the site.

The operational surge is being managed by a growing workforce that bridges the region’s industrial past with its green energy future. Among those overseeing the logistics is Evie Duce, 20, who recently joined as a Logistics Coordinator. Ms Duce represents the fourth generation of her family to work on the site, following ancestors who served in the Redcar Blast Furnace and the Concast steel plant during the 1980s.

Deep-water infrastructure and investment

The 450-metre heavy-lift quay was developed through a £114 million loan from the National Wealth Fund. This purpose-built deep-water facility is a critical component of the wider Teesworks site, designed specifically to handle the immense scale of offshore wind components that traditional port infrastructure often cannot accommodate.

Last month, the facility’s operational efficiency was recognised nationally when it secured the UK Ports Innovation Award 2026.

Ally Cameron, Managing Director at Steel River Quay, said: "Evie’s story captures exactly what Steel River Quay is about – combining Teesside’s proud industrial heritage with the opportunities of a modern, global renewable energy sector. To see a fourth-generation worker playing such a key role in projects of this scale is incredibly special."

Future outlook for Teesside logistics

Current projections suggest that the high volumes of shipments handled at the quay will remain constant for at least the next 18 months. This pipeline of work is expected to bolster the local supply chain and provide long-term career paths for the next generation of logistics professionals.

Reflecting on the scale of the current operations, Evie Duce noted: "The volumes we’re seeing now we expect to carry on for the next 18 months. It’s amazing – and keeps you busy. The size of everything in this industry is incredible."

Chris Musgrave OBE, Chairman of Teesworks, added: "Evie’s journey is a brilliant example of Teesside’s industrial legacy evolving into a new era. We’re creating opportunities on a global stage. It’s fantastic to see Steel River Quay growing and local people leading the way."

As the Hornsea 3 project progresses, Steel River Quay remains a focal point for the UK's transition to renewable energy, proving that the North East's industrial infrastructure remains vital to international energy markets.