Offshore Wind Power in the UK: Neither Lagging Nor Losing Momentum
The question of whether offshore wind power projects are going out of fashion in the UK has often been raised, especially with only three fields currently in active construction and rapid completion expected. However, the state of the offshore wind sector in the UK is anything but stagnant. This article explores the current status and future prospects of offshore wind power in the UK.
The Current State of Offshore Wind Power in the UK
Currently, the UK is leading the world in generating power from offshore wind farms both in terms of absolute figures and as a percentage of total energy production. According to recent figures, the UK generates more power from offshore wind than any other nation, and this trend is expected to continue. The clean energy strategy aims to have 30% of electricity generated by offshore wind farms by 2030, and the UK is well on track to meet this target.
Future Projects and Extensions
Despite the rapid progress and impressive figures, it is important to note that several major extensions to existing sites are on the horizon. These sites, leased from the Crown Estate, are awaiting final habitat plan submissions for 2019. If approved, these extensions will add another 3GW of capacity, thereby enhancing the UK's reliance on renewable energy sources.
Contracts for Difference and Competitive Pricing
Offshore wind power continues to be a competitive energy source. Recent projects under the 'Contracts for Difference' (CfD) second allocation round, including Triton Knoll, Hornsea 2, and Moray East, are projected to deliver electricity at a cost of between 5.7p and 7.5p per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This pricing is already highly competitive with other power sources. Therefore, future CfD rounds for wind projects may not be necessary, as the industry is increasingly viable without government subsidies.
Why the Target of 30%?
Given the significant advancements and success of offshore wind power in the UK, an arbitrary target of 30% might seem insufficient. However, it is important to consider the intermittency of wind energy. The target was set with the understanding that wind power is reliant on weather conditions and may not be available consistently. Additionally, another 30% was supposed to come from nuclear power, which has faced delays. Both these factors necessitate setting a specific target, even if it might seem conservative.
The UK's commitment to clean energy and its progress in offshore wind power firmly positions it as a leader in the transition towards renewable energy sources. While there is still much to be done, the current momentum is strong, and the future looks bright for offshore wind power in the UK.