The UK government has granted planning permission to RWE for the 1100MW Awel Y Mor wind farm in the Irish Sea.
Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho has given the go-ahead for up to 50 turbines for the extension of the operational Gwynt Y Mor (pictured) site off north Wales.
In her decision, Coutinho said the benefits of the development “outweigh its adverse impacts”.
She added that “matters relating to Habitat Regulations have been satisfied” by the developer.
“Consequently, the Secretary of State considers that development consent should be granted for the Awel y Môr offshore wind farm.”
The decision follows a recommendation by the Planning Inspectorate to grant consent for the scheme subject to conditions.
RWE still requires a consent decision from Welsh authorities.
If granted, RWE could enter next year’s Allocation Round 6 auction.
The developer has been asked to comment on the consent ruling.
The consenting process for the site in the Irish Sea began in May 2022.
AyM will be built approximately 10.5 km off the coast of north Wales, to the west of the existing Gwynt y Mor wind farm, with its grid connection planned to reach the shoreline between Rhyl and Prestatyn.
Earlier this year RWE Renewables began activities to find suppliers for the project by launching a website, which is part of a wider initiative called the Supplier Transparency & Engagement Programme, to help suppliers get ready for procurement.
Planning Inspectorate’s Chief Executive, Paul Morrison said: ”The Planning Inspectorate has now examined more than 100 nationally significant infrastructure projects since the Planning Act 2008 process was introduced, ensuring local communities have had the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them.
“Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other Interested Parties were able to participate in this six-month Examination.
“The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the Examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.”