The Offshore Wind Evidence and Change Programme’s second annual report has been released by The Crown Estate.
The report provides an overview of a transformative year for the programme at a crucial juncture in the UK’s offshore energy landscape.
According to The Crown Estate, this makes it possible to collect data and evidence for the sustainable development of offshore wind in the UK, which will benefit coastal communities and marine life.
It has agreed to invest an additional £25 million in the programme, increasing the whole commitment to £50 million over six years.
Six projects were finished in 2022, according to the report, the first time since the program’s official start in 2021.
In addition, 15 further projects were funded with a total investment of £14 million after a second call for proposals, bringing the total number of projects sponsored by the initiative to 27.
Together with partner donations totaling over £10 million, these are worth around £30 million.
In order to address potential issues with floating wind, coordinated transmission, and alignment with the Environmental Improvement Package of the British Energy Security Strategy, The Crown Estate will examine and revise the program’s focus.
The Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs collaborated to develop the report (Defra).
Gus Jaspert, Managing director for marine at The Crown Estate, said ”The seabed is getting busier with each passing year, and the need to ensure a thriving marine environment is becoming ever more complex.”
“The importance of securing the UK’s energy security and path to net zero, while tackling crises of climate and biodiversity loss, has never been greater.”
“The Crown Estate’s role as long-term stewards of the seabed means we are committed to best practice management that will accelerate renewables alongside a wide range of other interests.”
“In that context, the £50m Offshore Wind Evidence and Change Programme is a vital pillar in driving collaboration to ensure the responsible and sustainable management of our seabed in lockstep with the development of offshore wind.”
“In 2022 we have seen a fantastic array of projects beginning, concluding and developing that will add to our understanding for years to come. This report goes some way to shining a light on the huge amount of work that’s taken place.”
“A huge congratulations and thanks to all of our programme partners on their work to date, and we look forward to a successful 2023.”
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