The Estonian government has revealed the final location of the joint Estonian and Latvian offshore wind energy project Elwind today.
The 700-1000 MW project will be built in Estonian waters is the sea area west of Sõrve.
Elwind has been initiated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, the Latvian Ministry of Economy, the Center for Environmental Investments, the Latvian Investment and Development Agency and the Latvian grid operator Augstsprieguma tīkls (AST).
Estonia’s minister of economy and infrastructure Riina Sikkut said that during the preliminary study of the location various sea areas were analysed.
The sea area to the west of Sørve’s leg turned out to be suitable, because there are better wind and ice conditions compared to other areas and the area is away from the known flight paths of migratory birds, the habitats of seals and other aquatic life.
“Estonian offshore wind energy is an untapped potential both in the context of the green revolution, more reasonable energy prices and our energy security.
“Therefore, we are happy that after thorough analyses we have again taken a step forward regarding the establishment of the Estonian-Latvian offshore wind farm and have selected a suitable location,” Sikkut said.
The next stage of the project in Estonia, will see the Centre for Environmental Investments submit an application to the Consumer Protection and Technical Supervision Agency (TTJA) for the issuance of a building permit for the Estonian maritime area of the joint project.
An environmental impact assessment will then be initiated by the TTJA.