Abstract
Offshore wind has become the cornerstone of the UK’s drive to net zero. But with this comes the need to do more than ever before, and at a faster pace. This report sets out how seabed rights for 20-30GW of new offshore capacity could be brought to market before the end of the decade to support the UK’s net zero and energy security ambitions. It looks at the prime areas of opportunity for new wind farms and considers how a mix of fixed, deepwater fixed and floating wind projects might be brought forward and developed over the coming years.
Part of the solution lies with the development of a new Marine Delivery Routemap, with our early thinking on this published alongside this report. This exciting work, founded in partnership, builds on The Crown Estate’s world-leading expertise and marine data capabilities to plot a course for a long-term vision for the competing demands on our seabed, while protecting and enhancing the marine environment. Further publications are planned as part of this work on other key sectors, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and minerals. We will also be taking a more detailed look at our approach to nature, including how we can continue working in collaboration with others to deliver restoration and recovery.