Consultation launched for proposed new Moray Firth windfarm
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PLANS for a major offshore Moray Firth windfarm development are the subject of an Offshore Scoping Report, which has been submitted to Marine Scotland.
It represents the first major public document for Caledonia Offshore Windfarm project, which is being run by Ocean Winds.
The report outlines the technologies under consideration for developing the 2GW offshore wind site in the Moray Firth (429km2 designated NE4 in the ScotWind process). It also details the work that will be undertaken for the Environmental Impact Assessment which will support the planning application for the project, which is expected to be made in 2024.
Once fully commissioned (expected in 2030), Caledonia will double the Moray Firth’s ability to supply low-cost, low-carbon electricity, with expected capacity meeting the average electricity needs of around two million homes.
Caledonia Project Director Mark Baxter said: “The ScotWind seabed allocation took place at the beginning of the year, and I am pleased that, after just nine months Caledonia is one of the first projects to publish its scoping report – marking an important early milestone in project development.
“The urgent need for new generation, low-cost energy capacity in the UK and Scotland has been prioritised by governments, and Caledonia is ideally placed to deliver quickly.
“Caledonia’s Scoping Report comprehensively outlines the options being considered to develop the wind farm and the proposed approach to the project's Environmental Impact Assessment. We have extensive knowledge, experience and relationships in the Moray Firth, and we look forward to engaging with the individuals, organisations and communities who have an interest in the project.”
The Scoping Report is open to consultation, with a series of public events being held in November: Wick (November 7), Fraserburgh (November 9) and Buckie (November).
The Scoping report can be viewed at www.caledoniaoffshorewind.com/the-project/public-engagement
Ocean Winds is an international company dedicated to offshore wind energy and created as a 50-50 joint venture, owned by EDP Renewables and ENGIE. The firm develops, finances, builds and operates offshore wind farm projects all around the world.
