Engineering news
A niche technology until relatively recently, floating turbines could soon provide 185GW of capacity worldwide if all planned projects go ahead, up from 91GW a year ago.
The figures, in a report released today (12 October) by trade organisation RenewableUK, show that the number of projects has increased globally from 130 to 230. The pipeline includes projects at any stage – operational, under construction, approved, in the planning system or at an early stage of development.
The “EnergyPulse Insights” report shows that the UK is maintaining its global lead, with a much larger pipeline than any other country.
Of the global 185GW pipeline, 121MW is fully commissioned across nine projects in seven countries. 96MW is under construction and 288MW is consented or in the pre-construction phase.
A much larger proportion is in an earlier stage – 31GW is in planning or has a lease agreement, while 153GW is in early development or the leasing process.
“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,” said RenewableUK CEO Dan McGrail.
“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 providing 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.”
Almost two-thirds (107GW, 58%) of floating capacity is being developed in Europe. 33.3GW (18%) of the global floating portfolio is in the UK, of which 29GW is in Scottish waters.
Outside of Europe, leasing areas off the west coast of the US, project proposals off the southeast coast of Australia, and South Korea make up most of the rest of the capacity.
By the end of 2030, floating wind capacity could reach 11GW in the UK, 31GW in Europe and 41GW globally, the report found.
Demand for floating foundations is expected to ramp up quickly, with potential for nearly 1,000 floating foundations to be installed in UK waters by the end of 2030. Globally, 3,200 floating foundations could be installed by the end of the decade.
The report was released at RenewableUK’s Floating Offshore Wind 2022 conference and exhibition in Aberdeen today.
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Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.