The UK Crown Estate has revealed the eight proposed offshore wind farm extension projects totalling up to 3.4GW that have now satisfied its application criteria.
On the east coast, applications have been filed for extensions at the up to 317MW Sheringham Shoal, 402MW Dudgeon, 573MW Race Bank, 504MW Greater Gabbard, 353MW Galloper and 300MW Thanet wind farms.
Off the west coast, the seabed landlord has received filings for an extension to the 576MW Gwynt y Mor (pictured) and an extension is also proposed to the 400MW Rampion off southern England.
The eight projects, located in the waters around England and Wales, will now be subject to a plan level Habitats Regulations Assessment, which will assess any possible impacts on relevant nature conservation sites of European importance, said the seabed landlord.
This process will last between six and nine months.
Agreement for lease could be granted in 2019 subject to the outcome of the HRA.
Successful developers would then commence project specific environmental assessments and seek consent for their projects through the statutory planning process, added the Crown Estate.
“It is really positive to see such a strong response to the opportunity for extension projects,” said Crown Estate head of energy development Will Apps.
“In parallel with our Habitats Regulations Assessment, we will continue to work closely with the applicants and our stakeholders to ensure careful consideration of any environmental impacts and existing users of the seabed, ahead of any award of rights.”
Make sure you have the full story on this significant announcement for UK offshore wind by checking out the market-leading reNEWS coverage:
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