Projects in the OEA Region
Projects in the Pipeline
In addition to opportunities associated with existing and ongoing projects – complimented by a positive political backdrop, developers are driving forward the delivery of both fixed and floating offshore wind projects plus a range of other marine and low carbon technologies within the Irish Sea region.
RWE’s Awel y Môr Offshore Wind Farm is the extension or ‘sister project’ to Gwynt y Môr. The project is currently in the development phase, with construction planned from approximately 2026/7 onwards. With an aim of becoming operational before 2030, the wind farm has the potential to contribute significantly towards both UK and Welsh Government renewable energy targets.A
As part of the Crown Estate’s Leasing Round 4, bp & EnBW were jointly selected as preferred bidder to develop Mona Offshore Wind. This has since become a joint venture between JERA Nex bp and will have a potential generating capacity of 1.5GW, sufficient to power the equivalent of approximately 1 million UK households.
Another Leasing Round 4 success is the 480MW Morecambe fixed foundation project in the Irish Sea, secured by Flotation Energy plc with Spanish joint venture partner Cobra (part of the ACS Group).
The OEA is also looking to increase links with fixed and floating offshore wind projects seeking development off the Irish coastline and into the south of Wales Celtic Sea region, via collaboration with other clusters. UK-wide extension and Round 4 leasing projects provide even further opportunities for businesses in the region to participate in. The OEA helps keep local parties up to date and aware.
Looking Ahead
Looking beyond current opportunities, components and services, it is important to consider wider opportunities as well.
In due course, decommissioning or recycling potential will rise and, separately, new challenges and innovative solutions are needed all the time. Many indirect supply chain services are required too – from catering and hotels to PPE and storage facilities, and more.
Offshore wind is also an important facilitator for other technologies, including floating wind (with substantial GW amounts due to be developed in the Celtic Sea, and with potential off of Anglesey) and green hydrogen. There are also key synergies with the maritime and ports sector. The OEA aims to build on the region’s past and existing capabilities, maximising these for offshore wind and other energy industries.
