THE Glasgow-based Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has announced it is to merge with the National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec) to create a "national champion" for the development and cost reduction of offshore wind, wave and tidal energy across the UK.

The new body, which will combine Narec's research, development and testing facilities with ORE's industrial reach and engineering expertise, will be led by ORE boss Andrew Jamieson.