Plans for 1.2 GW Hornsea Project One, aiming to be world’s first gigawatt scale offshore wind farm has been given green light by the government.
The operation of the plant that consists of 332 turbines is expected to begin by 2020.
Smart Wind will be responsible for the development works of the project.
The project includes development of three offshore wind farms with a maximum capacity of 1200MW.
Smart Wind has signed a development consent order (DOC) for this 50:50 joint venture between Mainstream Renewable Power, Siemens and DONG Energy.
Located near the Yorkshire coast, the Project is expected to meet the electricity needs of around 800,000 residents.
“Hornsea Project One is part of the essential new infrastructure that has driven major investment in the Humber economy and ensures a low carbon future for the area,” says, Andy Kinsella, chief operating officer, Mainstream Renewable Power.
The offshore wind project is expected to create up to 2,500 local jobs.
The scheme has been consented on the condition that it has an employment and skills plan approved by North Lincolnshire Council, including local advertising of jobs and supply chain opportunities.
Cabling works will also be conducted in the area, covering the south west of North East Lincolnshire to connect to the National Grid at a new substation at North Killingholme.
Hornsea Project One is expected to support UK’s position as a global leader in offshore wind, ensuring its long term material contribution to the power generation.
UK has set a target of achieving a quarter of its electricity needs from renewable energy sources by 2020.
Sabeena Wahid
[email protected]