The UK government has given the go-ahead for Vattenfall’s 1800MW Norfolk Vanguard project but has delayed making a final call on Orsted’s 2400MW Hornsea 3.
BEIS Secretary Alok Sharma gave the green light to the Swedish developer for up to 158 turbines off East Anglia.
In a decision published on Wednesday evening, Sharma noted “strong concerns” expressed on a range of issues including the landscape around an onshore substation but found in favour of project.
“The Secretary of State considers that…on balance, the benefits of the proposed development outweigh its adverse impacts. He, therefore, concludes that development consent should be granted in respect of the development,” a statement of his decision said.
Vattenfall wind senior vice president Gunnar Groebler said the ruling justifies the company’s confidence in the UK sector.
“Vattenfall’s purpose is to power climate smarter living. Decarbonising our economies starts with one of the most essential resources – electricity,” he said.
“We’re delighted to receive planning consent for Norfolk Vanguard. This decision justifies the confidence that we have in the offshore wind sector in Britain, and we’re looking forward to developing the project and benefiting the local community.”
RenewableUK chief executive Hugh McNeal said: “Investments in major clean energy projects like these are great examples of how we can get the economy moving again, and the secretary of state’s announcement will boost our ability to meet the Government’s 2030 target of 40GW of offshore wind.
“The landmark decision on Norfolk Vanguard means the UK is taking a significant step closer towards our net zero emissions target, and confirmation of a positive decision on Hornsea Three will get us there even faster.
“Large scale offshore wind power is good for our environment and our economy, by tackling climate change will boosting productivity and creating thousands of jobs in the process.
“These projects will help us to maintain our global lead in offshore wind, as well as building up our UK supply chain”.
Vattenfall country manager Danielle Lane added: “Today is also great news for people living locally, who we’ve been working with over the last four years to develop this project.
“They can look forward to a multi-billion pound economic boost, bringing with it hundreds of new long-term jobs, driving forward a green revolution and helping to level up UK opportunities.”
On Hornsea 3, Sharma delayed a decision, pushing back a final call on the project to 31 December to study further information on bird impacts.
The BEIS Secretary said he was “minded to grant consent” to Orsted later this year, as long as the Danish developer can provide further information about how the project will compensate for harm to kittiwake populations on the Flamborough and Filey coast.
A final decision on the project has already been delayed several times.