The UK government has defended its decision to set an “unprecedented” £800m budget to support offshore wind in this year’s Allocation Round 6, amid growing criticism that it does not go far enough.
Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho (pictured) said the move showed Ministers were “sticking to the plan” to increase deployment and build on “a record to be proud of”.
This contrasts with developers and industry bodies which described the announcement in London’s Spring Budget as a “missed opportunity”. Initial estimates point to the cash supporting less than half of the 10GW of projects that are eligible to enter AR6.
Minister for Nuclear and Renewables Andrew Bowie added: “This unprecedented renewables budget funding will keep the UK at the cutting edge of the industry.
“This announcement will ensure we offer certainty to developers and continue to attract investment in the UK.
“I am excited to see the opportunities that will open for our world-class renewable industries, reducing emissions and delivering reliable clean energy for the British people.”