Early impact insight to shape communication narrative for Awel y Môr offshore wind farm

Wavehill was commissioned by RWE to deliver a socio-economic study of the proposed Awel y Môr offshore wind farm. The work was undertaken ahead of consultation exercises to shape public messaging. It also supported internal decision making by testing how different development scenarios, particularly port locations, influenced potential outcomes.

The study combined modelling and stakeholder insight to build an evidence base that could be used consistently across engagement. This included:
• Supply chain analysis drawing on comparable offshore wind developments
• Scenario modelling across project sizes and locations
• Stakeholder interviews capturing local and industry perspectives
• Assessment of expenditure, GVA and job years across project phases

This approach enabled a clear articulation of how investment could translate into economic activity.

The analysis demonstrated how impacts varied over time and geography, while port choice was shown to be a defining factor in how these benefits were distributed. Different scenarios shifted activity between North Wales, North West England and Northern Ireland, providing a structured basis for comparing options.

The outputs were used to support external engagement by presenting a clear, quantified narrative of potential benefits. This helped RWE position the project within local and regional economic priorities, demonstrate how supply chain participation could influence outcomes and provide stakeholders with a shared understanding of how impacts might arise.