The UK government is reportedly in talks with the developers behind the 560MW Green Volt floating wind farm over whether Chinese company Mingyang should supply the turbines.
According to a report in The Guardian, Mingyang has emerged as the preferred manufacturer but Green Volt, which is jointly owned by Scotland-based Flotation Energy, and Vargronn in Norway, has sought advice from ministers on whether to proceed.
Green Volt, located in the North Sea off Scotland, would be the largest floating wind project in Europe.
The Guardian reported that the decision on whether to work with Mingyang is being overseen by ministers after the government stepped in to take control of British Steel amid claims that its Chinese owner, Jingye Group, was running down the site.
This triggered calls for Chinese companies to be prevented from getting involved with critical national infrastructure.
A spokesperson for Green Volt would not confirm whether there was any preferred turbine supplier but reiterated past comments.
“Having secured a Contract for Difference from the government last year, we are identifying supply chain partners to help us build the wind farm.
“We will comply with any government regulation and guidance around security of critical national infrastructure in the selection of all our suppliers.”