MPs to hold evidence session to explore potential of offshore wind

The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) will be holding an evidence session on offshore wind. It will consider the potential of offshore wind and how Government policy can facilitate the UK making the best and most cost-effective use of the technology.

The UK has the largest market in the world for offshore wind, and over the past 10 years, wind power has grown rapidly due to reductions in the costs of constructing and operating wind power facilities. Every year the UK has seen a steady increase in the amount of electricity being generated by wind power, with statistics for 2019 showing a 3% increase to 20%.

Following the Government’s Offshore Wind Sector Deal in March 2019, the Committee will consider the opportunities that will maximise the industry’s potential, and the challenges it faces in delivering greater capacity.

The session will hear from experts from the sector and those involved with developing the Government’s Offshore Wind Sector Deal. 

Witnesses from 09:30

• Andrew Jamieson, CEO, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult
• Rebecca Williams, Head of Policy and Regulation, RenewableUK
• Benj Sykes, Head of UK Market Development, Consenting & External Affairs at Ørsted and co-chair of Offshore Wind Industry Council