UK in strong position as floating wind surges

The UK is a strong position to capitalise on the surge in floating offshore wind projects, according to a new report.

RenewableUK said the global capacity of fully operational projects has increased by 38% in the past year to 382MW today.

The UK accounts for 78MW and the report said it also has “by far the most credible floating wind pipeline globally”.

“The UK is the only major market worldwide which has a substantial amount of capacity with lease agreements already in place, as well as projects progressing through the planning system, a functioning Contracts for Difference mechanism and projects that have already secured support,” it pointed out.

The UK has two fully operational floating wind projects – Kincardine (48MW) and Hywind (30MW) - and a project pipeline of 28.4GW.

RenewableUK CEO Tara Singh said the UK has a “great opportunity to capitalise on our position as a global leader in this innovative technology”.