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The UK’s pipeline of floating offshore wind projects has grown 43% over the past year, maintaining the country’s role as a “global leader” in the development of the green technology.
The figures are included in a new report from RenewableUK, which also shows the number of projects underway across the world has more than doubled in the past 12 months, from 91GW to 185GW.
In the UK, this has seen the number of projects growing from 29 to 51, equalling an increase in capacity from 23GW to over 33GW. The UK is home to 18% of the global floating portfolio, of which 29GW is in Scottish waters.
Internationally, the number of schemes has increased from 130 to 230. The pipeline includes projects at any stage – operational, under construction, approved, in the planning system or at an early stage of development.
Within the global 185GW pipeline, 121MW is fully commissioned over nine projects in seven countries. Meanwhile, 96MW is under construction, 288MW is consented or in the pre-construction phase, 31GW is in planning or has a lease agreement and 153GW is in early development or is in the leasing process.
The EnergyPulse report estimates that by the end of 2030, floating wind capacity could reach 11GW in the UK, 31GW in Europe and 41GW globally.
It also notes that demand for floating foundations is expected to ramp up fast, with the potential for nearly 1,000 to be installed in UK waters by the end of 2030. Globally 3,200 projects could be built by the end of the decade.
RenewableUK chief executive Dan McGrail said: “The growth of floating offshore wind is surging ahead at a phenomenal rate year on year around the world. We’re proud that the UK is a global leader in this innovative technology with nearly a fifth of the total pipeline – significantly greater than any other country.
“In the years ahead, as we build projects further out to sea where wind speeds are even stronger, floating wind will play a central role in proving cheap, clean electricity for British homes as well as boosting our energy security.
“It also offers a significant opportunity to build up a whole new industry in the UK, with a world-class supply chain which will enable us to export our expertise and state of the art technology worldwide.”
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