Giant floating wind farms are set to be moored off Britain’s south-west coast as part of Ed Miliband’s ambitious green energy plans. The Crown Estate and the Energy Department are currently working on proposals to rent out large parts of the UK’s seabed to offshore wind companies for the construction of 300m turbines, which will be as tall as London’s Shard skyscraper.
A tender has been launched for three sites in the Celtic Sea to host these wind farms, which will be mounted on individual floating platforms the size of a football pitch. Once operational, these wind farms are expected to generate enough renewable energy to power over 4 million homes. Lease agreements for the sites are set to be signed this summer after the bidding process is completed.
Several ports, including Plymouth, Bristol, and Swansea, have been identified as potential locations for building the turbines. These plans are part of Ed Miliband’s overall net zero drive, aiming to increase the deployment of wind and solar farms across the country.
Despite some opposition, the Energy Secretary has also recently approved a separate proposal for new turbines in the English Channel. Miliband emphasized the benefits of these projects, stating that they will create economic growth and thousands of jobs in Wales and the South West, while also ensuring energy security for families and businesses.
The Crown Estate, responsible for managing the seabed and coastline in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has been profiting from renting out seabed space to offshore wind farms. They have unveiled plans to lease seabed space for up to 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030, requiring the installation of thousands of new turbines. Additionally, the estate plans to make prime farmland available for renewable energy projects.
Gus Jaspert of the Crown Estate highlighted the opportunity for the UK to lead in the floating offshore wind industry, with government support securing the country’s position as a global leader in this sector. The aim is to create a decarbonized, energy-secure, and prosperous future for future generations.