BRITAIN can create thousands of jobs and billions for the economy by exploiting its “unique potential” to become a world-leading wind farm manufacturer, experts have said.

Ministers were urged today to take the “open goal” after a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) estimated  the economy has already lost £30 billion from a failure to build enough turbines since 2008.

It warned Britain is currently set to miss its 2030 offshore wind targets by 18 years — but a £3.2bn invesment in manufacturing facilities could generate tens of thousands of direct and indirect jobs, while also protecting household energy bills.

Renewable UK’s head of supply chain Ajai Ahluwalia said IPPR’s recommendations would support an additional 10,000 jobs a year and boost the economy by £25bn between now and 2035 for a return of just under £9 for every £1 invested. 

It recommended fixing the current demand problem by ensuring developers have long term contracts; capacity-boosting business support across the manufacturing supply chain and upgrades to port and naval infrastructure to deliver and install large-size offshore wind farms.

A Unite union spokesman said it was shocking that every British wind farm turbine — mainly off the coast of Scotland — has been built abroad, adding: “The IPPR report is a stark warning to any incoming government about the dangers of the UK falling way behind on exploiting the unique potential it has to become a world leader in wind turbine manufacturing. 

“The record of both the Conservative government and the Scottish government in this is one of abysmal failure.”

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has been contacted for comment.