The UK government’s Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5 has moved into its second phase, aimed at developing floating wind in the Celtic Sea off the coast of South Wales and South West England.
The second phase of the leasing process kicked off on 8 August, and will see bidders set out their plans for delivering new wind farms.
This second phase is known as Invitation to Tender Stage 1 (ITT Stage 1), with the leasing process ultimately leading to the creation of new floating wind farms in three Project Development Areas (PDAs) in the Celtic Sea.
The final stage of the process will see offshore wind developers take part in an auction to secure rights to the three PDAs, expected in the first half of 2025.
Agreements for Lease are expected to be signed in Summer 2025.
Bidders are being encouraged to be ambitious in developing their proposals, which could include initiatives linked to skills development, apprenticeship opportunities, community impact, sustainable procurement and nature restoration, the Crown Estate said.
“Already, The Crown Estate has formed an exciting new partnership with Great British Energy, and this latest leasing round offers even more opportunities to deliver these projects,” Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband said.
“This, combined with over £1.5 billion we’re offering through the next Contracts for Difference auction, will give developers the confidence to deliver here – and help us reach clean power by 2030.”
“There are huge opportunities to be seized all along Wales’ coast and, working in partnership with Great British Energy, we are pleased that The Crown Estate will be able to take a more active role on social value and local supply chains to help deliver something truly transformative,” First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan said.
This latest milestone follows the conclusion of the initial Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) in June 2024. The response from offshore wind developers to this stage demonstrated a clear interest in Round 5, with The Crown Estate able to move forward with a strong pool of Prequalified Bidders, all of whom have demonstrated their suitability to proceed, The Crown Estate said.