A report has been commissioned to explore the challenges and opportunities for Essex in the low carbon and renewable energy sectors.

Essex County Council has appointed a specialist industry group, led by Nautilus Associates, which has offices in Lowestoft, Gorleston and Aberdeen, to provide an independent assessment of the prospects for the energy sector in Essex and to map a clear action plan to support business growth in energy.

Kevin Bentley, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for economic growth, waste and recycling, said: “This report will help to inform the future of our county’s vital energy industry and set out measures we need to take to secure investment, jobs and growth across Essex.

“We know that major energy and infrastructure projects are looking to invest in Essex, such as EDF Energy and the China General Nuclear Power Corporation’s recent announcement on a new power station at Bradwell.

“We also know that Essex is perfectly placed to support the installation and operations of multi-billion pound offshore wind farm developments directly off our coast, potentially creating thousands of new jobs.

“The opening of CWind’s new offices in Colchester earlier this month is a great example of the growth we hope to see elsewhere in Essex.”

John Balch, managing director at Nautilus Associates, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to undertake this crucial piece of work to explore new opportunities across Essex.

“Capital expenditure on major energy projects in and off the coast of the East of England is forecast at more than £18.5billion by 2020.

“That’s a huge opportunity for Essex-based businesses to pitch for and part of our work will be engaging with businesses across the county to explore what more can be done to help them secure those opportunities.”

Nautilus will be supported in this work by industry specialists EEEGR, 4C Offshore and Cornwall Energy. Focused workshops and consultation events will take place early in 2016 to explore these opportunities and engage with business.