The companies say their plan will create new jobs in the region (the north-east of Scotland) and contribute towards the UK’s 2050 net-zero carbon emissions target.
Floating offshore wind is expected to be a significant area of green growth this decade as technology costs fall. It could prove a particularly cost-effective approach in areas with deep waters where fixed offshore wind is not feasible, such as the site to the north-east of Scotland proposed by the companies.
The Scottish coast is seen as an ideal location for offshore wind investment thanks to the Scottish government’s renewable energy ambitions and geographic considerations. Hywind Scotland – the first floating offshore wind farm – has the highest average capacity factor for any wind farm in the country, with average capacity factor of 57 per cent in 2020-21.
Scottish Power CEO Keith Anderson, said: “Scotland is the windiest country in Europe and has the biggest and most experienced offshore...