Investors, supporters and workers gathered at the new home of OnPath Energy at Chase House in Rainton Bridge Business Park, Sunderland yesterday (Friday, January 10) to mark its official opening.
Also present was Houghton and Sunderland South MP and Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson who took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony and gave a short speech praising clean power and the prospect of more jobs for local people.
(Image: ONPATH ENERGY) Touring the new HQ, Ms Phillipson was given a brief history of the company that currently operates ten onshore windfarms across England and Scotland – with the prospect of more possible after the government lifted the ban on new sites in July 2024.
Richard Dunkley, CEO of OnPath, told The Northern Echo that the company will look to develop both onshore farms here in the region as well as ways to employ young people from the North East.
He said: “OnPath has been a developer for of renewable assets for decades – and we have already built loads of windfarms. Next year, we are set to build a solar scheme, a battery scheme and a new windfarm.
“We are then hopeful to build a new development in East Ayrshire and much more. When you add up the cost of those projects, it totals near to £1bn.
(Image: ONPATH ENERGY) “Our roots are here in the North East – and now the government has lifted that ban we will look to develop our onshore wind in England but will also look at this region.”
However, Richard emphasised that whilst they will look into new locations in our region and beyond, the process is a long one and “will take time” – even up to a decade.
He added: “When we talk about jobs here in the North East, 80 per cent of people in this office are from a 25 mile radius.
“Having a base here helps us creates really good long term green jobs. Fifteen to 20 of the people who work here have also gone to local universities.
“Being here, we attract local talent. We are actively looking at graduate schemes, possibly internships too which is a fantastic chance for young people to find out what a business is like.
“We are doing our bit – we are a people business. We are an ideas businesses that requires creative flair and more, we are an amalgamation of all different skills.”
Following the tour, a number of short speeches and even a cake cutting, the Secretary of State was quick to praise the business’ move to her constituency.
She said: “It’s really exciting to be able to welcome OnPath Energy to Sunderland – there are so many opportunities for jobs and growth in the years to come.
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“It is fantastic to see how the company is expanding and progressing and seeing the commitment they have to recruit more young people into these jobs of the future.”
Cllr Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, added: “We are delighted that OnPath is growing its presence here in Sunderland.
“It is a business that has a commitment to supporting the city and its people, through its responsible approach as an employer, as well as by working with local supply chain, and we’re proud to be able to join them today as they celebrate their relocation to Houghton-le-Spring, adding to our dynamic business community.”