RenewableUK recently reported that the world’s overall pipeline of floating offshore wind projects has more than doubled in capacity in the last 12 months. It was up 185 gigawatts (GW) from 91 GW a year ago.
According to Elecktrek, the number of projects climbed from 130 to 230 over that time. Additionally, projects in the pipeline can be operational, under construction, approved, in the planning system, or the early stages of development.
The report also emphasized that in the 185 GW pipeline worldwide, 121 MW have been fully commissioned among nine projects in seven nations. There are 96 MW under construction, while 288 MW have received approval or are in the pre-construction stage. On the other hand, there is a lease agreement or planning for 31 GW. Moreover, 153 GW are either in the planning stages of development or are being leased.
Notably, the UK is at the forefront when it comes to floating offshore wind total portfolios by country. Over 33 GW are already in its queue, up from 23 GW a year ago. This indicates an increase in projects from 29 to 51 this year. These projects are currently being developed in the North Sea, the Celtic Sea, and North Atlantic Ocean.
In Europe, a floating offshore wind capacity of 107 GW (58%) is being built. Meanwhile, the UK is home to 33.3 GW (18%) of the world’s floating portfolio, 29 GW of which are located in the Scottish seas.
Most of the remaining capacity is located outside of Europe. It comprises leasing regions off the US West Coast, project proposals off the southeast coast of Australia, and South Korea.
According to the authors of the report, floating wind capacity might hit 11 GW in the UK, 31 GW in Europe, and 41 GW globally by the end of 2030.
Climate Action also indicated that a rapid increase in demand for floating foundations is anticipated. By the end of 2030, more than 1,000 floating foundations may be erected in UK waters. By the decade’s end, 3,200 floating foundations might be built worldwide.
Renewable UK’s CEO Dan McGrail said: “The growth of floating offshore wind is surging ahead at a phenomenal rate year on year around the world. We’re proud that the UK is a global leader in this innovative technology with nearly a fifth of the total pipeline – significantly greater than any other country.”
“In the years ahead, as we build projects further out to sea where wind speeds are even stronger, floating wind will play a central role in proving cheap, clean electricity for British homes as well as boosting our energy security.
“It also offers a significant opportunity to build up a whole new industry in the UK, with a world-class supply chain which will enable us to export our expertise and state-of-the-art technology worldwide.”
According to Engineering and Technology, the government launched a £31 million fund earlier this year to encourage the expansion of floating offshore wind plants. It has obtained 11 gigawatts of successful bids for diverse renewable technologies at a record-low cost.
