2016-08-23 Go-ahead Given for World’s Largest Offshore Wind Farm: 1.8-GW Hornsea Project Two
“Overall we see a great future for offshore wind in the UK for the right type of projects,” a DONG Energy spokesperson told Renewable Energy World. “At DONG Energy we currently have four projects under construction in the UK, which will provide another 2.7 gigawatts of offshore wind power.”
The Hornsea news comes at time of relative discord in the UK energy industry, as debate ensues over a decision of whether or not to proceed with the Hinkley Point C nuclear plant. Last month, Prime Minister Theresa May delayed a final decision on the controversial 1,400 MW nuclear project — a move that came amidst a summer of increasing criticism of the project over its expense (most recent estimates project costs as high as £37 billion), delays, and validity as an effective means to support the UK’s progression to a cleaner energy industry.
Weighing in on the debate, wind industry stakeholders have been quick to push the case for wind power — highlighting that investments in wind can carry far more cost-effective returns and lower risks than nuclear power.
Huub den Rooijen, Director of Energy, Minerals and Infrastructure at The Crown Estate — the body managing development of UK offshore wind power —, stated in reference to approval: "Offshore wind is already on course to meet 10% of the UK’s electricity demand by 2020. Major developments of Hornsea Project Two’s scale will pave the way for its continued growth alongside driving down costs, creating high value jobs, and supporting the UK’s transition to a low carbon energy supply."
Original article: 2016-08-23 Go-ahead Given for World’s Largest Offshore Wind Farm: 1.8-GW Hornsea Project Two
So offshore wind is on course to meet 10% of the UK's electricity demand by 2020. This certainly beats the claim that HPC would supply 7% - if it were ever completed.
See also the other advantages expressed by the Director of Energy, Minerals and Infrastructure at The Crown Estate. None of these would be likely from HPC.
Also wind farms have many wind turbines, which are series products, made in factories, thus improving (through learning) price, delivery, quality and reliability.
The same would apply to the many additional offshore wind sites still available, and floating wind turbines (which Siemens is trialling) would remove the water depth constraint.
“Overall we see a great future for offshore wind in the UK for the right type of projects,” a DONG Energy spokesperson told Renewable Energy World. “At DONG Energy we currently have four projects under construction in the UK, which will provide another 2.7 gigawatts of offshore wind power.”
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