Lancashire turbines sold to Belgium

Eighteen wind turbines manufactured by Blackpool based Ryse Energy have been sold to companies in Belgium.

Ryse, which manufactures small wind turbines and hybrid renewable energy systems, has spent two years selling into the Belgian market, including two 30 metre towers sold to Europlay.

The company employs 22 people in Lancashire, where its G11 turbine is assembled. The site also serves as a hub for around 1,000 turbines across the UK. Ryse’s UK turnover is more than £2 million, while turnover across the group is around £12 million. 

The sales came on the back of funding from Rosebud, which was used to develop and test a new turbine controller, as well as supporting equipment, research and capacity at its Disley Close plant. 

Richard Caldow, group chief operating officer at Ryse Energy, said: “Belgium was a market we wanted to enter, but we had to do the development work first.

"Rosebud backed us through that process and we have now sold 18 turbines there. Their team has taken the time to understand what we’re building in Lancashire and where we want to take the business.” 

Ryse returned to Rosebud for further funding after its first loan five years ago. The two teams remain in regular contact, speaking quarterly and sharing monthly updates about the business and its plans. 

Martin Emmott, fund manager at Rosebud, said: “Ryse had a clear opportunity in Belgium and a specific piece of development work to complete before it could sell there. We were able to support that work and continue the relationship as the business grew. It’s good to see the result in export sales, with the Lancashire team playing such a central role.” 

Ryse aims to expand its Lancashire operation as the group grows and uses Lancashire suppliers and subcontractors wherever it can. 

County councillor Brian Moore, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, said: “Ryse’s work in Belgium shows what can happen when a business with a base in Lancashire has support for a well defined growth opportunity. The turbines are assembled in Lancashire and Ryse is making use of local suppliers wherever it can. We want more businesses to have the chance to grow from a base here in Lancashire.”