The potential economic benefits of floating wind farms is being examined by a new study.
The work by Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult may help pave the way for UK Government to make new policy decisions to support industry growth.
The world’s first floating wind farm, Hywind Scotland, 15 miles off the Aberdeenshire coast started producing electricity in October.
The floating wind industry is currently at an early stage of development but may have significant potential for Scottish companies.
A further three test and demonstration scale projects have planning consent and seabed rights from Crown Estate Scotland, the public body that manages seabed leasing and passes revenue profits to Scottish Government.
Floating turbines can be cheaper to install compared to fixed structures.
Sian Wilson, senior development manager at Crown Estate Scotland said: “We want to find out the scale of the economic benefits – jobs, supply chain and exports – from growing the Scottish floating wind industry.
“The results of this study will help UK government and others take policy decisions on how to support development.
“As the low carbon economy grows and the world needs more clean, green energy, there is potentially a great opportunity for Scotland and the wider UK in ensuring we make the most of our competitive advantage.”
A report on £50,000 research project is expected to be published this summer.
Øyvind Gravås/ Statoil
Floating wind farm study
10 January 2018