The UK is no stranger to setting precedents in offshore wind, being one of the established leading global market players in the industry, but news last month about a new wind farm being developed off the South Coast looks set to change not just offshore wind, but renewable energy altogether.
Step forward Rampion Wind Farm. A £1.3bn, 400MW capacity, 116 turbine, 72km2 wind farm situated 13km off the South Coast.
With Germany poised to overtake the UK as the world’s largest offshore wind market, the UK are under pressure to deliver a similar output. They have subsequently targeted reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 4,215 kt CO2e across its 25-year lifetime, or in layman’s terms – the equivalent of taking 75,000 cars off the road.
There’s no doubt that this is strategically important for the UK. With a proposed ban on onshore wind in the offing and severe opposition to alternative sources of energy involving things like fracking, Rampion has breathed fresh life into offshore wind. Rampion provides a once in a generation opportunity for the UK, providing jobs, cutting emissions and boosting our energy security.
During the planned three year offshore construction period it is estimated that around 250 to 300 jobs will be created and local vessels utilised, with 40 roles being based at the project management facility in Newhaven Port. It is expected that a workforce of up to 100 will be needed for the onshore cable route and around a further 40 to 60 people at the onshore substation during onshore construction.
Once the wind farm is commissioned and fully operational, it is envisaged that up to 65 full time permanent jobs will be created at the operations and maintenance base.
Construction of the onshore substation in is due to start in June, closely followed by preparation works for the onshore cable route. Offshore construction will commence in early 2016 with planned completion in 2018.
Whilst from the outside, everything appears incredibly positive, there are many people sceptical about whether the Green Investment Bank has enough funding beyond 2020. For now though, let’s look forward to Rampion and the benefits that brings.
Gary Shayler
European Sales Director
2
will rampion
change uk energy for good?
116 turbine wind farm set for 2018 launch