Scottish Power and Shell have submitted “multiple proposals” for large-scale floating offshore windfarms in north-east Scotland.
The two companies this morning (16 July) revealed their joint bids to the Crown Estate Scotland’s ScotWind leasing round, which closes today.
They said their combined experience of working offshore, delivering large-scale infrastructure projects and their strength in innovation meant they “provide the right blend of skills and experience to successfully deliver these exciting projects”. No further details of the projects have been given at this stage.
Floating offshore windfarms are suitable for use in deeper water zones, where fixed foundations aren’t feasible, making it ideal for Scottish waters.
The UK government has pledged to provide 1GW of floating offshore wind capacity by 2030.
The ScotWind leasing round, the first in over a decade, sees bidders compete for the rights to 8,600km2 of Scottish seabed. The results of the auction are due to be released next year.
Scottish Power chief executive Keith Anderson said: “Scotland is the windiest country in Europe and has the biggest and most experienced offshore sector. Bringing ScottishPower and Shell’s collective knowledge, experience and expertise together means we’re perfectly placed to lead the way in developing large-scale offshore floating windfarms and creating a new green industry with massive potential for exporting our skills and experience globally and helping the UK decarbonise its energy generation.
“With just a few months until the COP26 UN Climate Change Summit in Glasgow, ScotWind will help create a whole new industry in floating wind that will play a crucial role in putting the country on course for a cleaner and greener future.”
Shell UK country chair David Bunch said “If our bid is successful, Shell and SPR are fully committed to working with Scottish communities and businesses to help develop supply chains and expertise which could make Scotland a world leader in floating wind. At Shell we continue to grow our capacity to generate, trade and supply cleaner power to our customers and to play our part in powering the UK to net zero.”