The UK offshore wind sector is attracting a broader pool of investors, with pensions funds and corporates entering the sector for the first time, according to a Crown Estate report.
The fifth ‘Offshore Wind Operational’ report said that 1463 offshore wind turbines were operational in the UK by the end of 2016, with a further 830 under construction this year,
Seven new sites are expected to reach first power in 2017, a level of development activity not seen since 2010, the report said.
It also noted quickening offshore construction rates and further growth in turbine capacity factors, while investment in operations and maintenance bases across the UK is bringing local development and job creation.
The Crown Estate director of energy, minerals and infrastructure Huub den Rooijen said: “2016 has been another strong year for the UK offshore wind sector, as demonstrated by this latest report, which helps open up some of the key lessons and trends from the past year, further arming the industry as it strives to take best advantage of the UK’s world-class offshore wind resource.”
Image: The Crown Estate
Investor pool ‘broadens’
Crown Estate report highlights latest operational developments in the sector
By EBS