SSE and its joint venture partner, innogy, are delighted that the application by Greater Gabbard Offshore Wind Farm to The Crown Estate for an extension to the existing wind farm site has successfully progressed to the next phase of the process. This will involve The Crown Estate undertaking a plan level Habitats Regulations Assessment of the proposed extension project.
The results of the assessments are expected during next summer, after which The Crown Estate will award an Agreement to Lease to each of the successful applicants. The proposed extension project would then be required to go through a design and consenting process, which would also involve a full consultation with local communities and stakeholders.
SSE has been a leading player in the UK’s offshore wind sector for over a decade. SSE was involved in the development and construction of Greater Gabbard Offshore Wind Farm (SSE share 50%), which it has operated since 2012. SSE is also currently leading the development and construction of Scotland’s largest offshore wind farm, Beatrice Offshore Windfarm Limited (SSE share 40%), which it will operate on completion of construction in 2019. Through the development and operation of these projects, SSE contributes to local and regional supply chains and to local communities. With over 3.3GW of consented offshore wind in its development pipeline, SSE will remain a key player in offshore wind and is committed to continuing to foster UK supply chains and delivering benefits to the UK economy.