Norwegian firm Statoil is to develop five 6MW turbines in water more than 100m deep, in the second phase of its Hywind project.
It builds on a demonstration turbine that has been running since 2009 off the coast of Norway. If successful, floating technology could open up new deep water sites for windfarms.
Statoil senior vice president Siri Espedal Kindem said the lease agreement from the Crown Estate was a “significant milestone” for Hywind’s Scottish pilot. However, more marine and concept studies were needed before a final investment decision could be made.
Energy minister Michael Fallon praised the “innovative” scheme, saying it “underlines the dynamism of the sector and theUK’s attractiveness as the number one destination for offshore wind development”.