A group of high-profile wind farm developers has called on the UK government to support remote Scottish islands projects in forthcoming Contract for Difference auctions.
SSE, EDF, Peel Energy, Hoolan Energy and 2020 Renewables said in a letter to BEIS Secretary Greg Clark that developments on the Northern and Western isles are “significantly different” than other onshore wind.
As evidence for the distinction, the group pointed to the charges for transmission connections, challenging development conditions and a greater wind resource.
They also said projects could likely be delivered for less than the previously established strike price of £115 per megawatt-hour.
“We remain committed to developing a cost reduction pathway,” they said. “There is a strong potential for non-mainland wind projects to be delivered at a lower cost than offshore wind.”
The developers also highilghted the potential for delivery of the islands wind “through a significant reliance on the UK supply chain”.
Consultation on support for islands wind under the CfD mechanism runs through the end of the month.
Image: wind resources on the Scottish islands are excellent (Shetland Aerogenerators)
Islands crew seeks CfD lifeline
SSE, EDF et al outline case based on cost reduction, supply chains
By EBS