Marine renewables include emerging technologies such as
floating offshore wind farms, tidal stream and wave
energy. The consultation will invite views from
developers and other interested parties on areas
including:
- how projects could be funded
- how costs could be reduced
- how the environmental impacts can best be handled
- how supply chains could benefit in the nations and
regions of the UK
The new consultation builds on the UK’s success in
renewable energy so far, with more offshore wind
capacity than any other country in the world and well
over a third of its energy now coming from renewables.
Secretary of State for Business and Energy said:
As an island nation we are perfectly placed to
capitalise on clean marine energy, building on our
world-leading position in offshore wind.
Examining how to make the most of our natural
resources and support marine technologies that are
cost-effective for the consumer will be crucial as we
build back better, creating green jobs and reaching
net zero emissions by 2050.
Marine technologies could benefit every part of the UK.
For example, tidal stream projects that harness the
energy of tides could be suitable for the Highlands and
Islands and North Wales, while floating offshore wind
turbines could be suitable for deeper waters off the
coast of Scotland, Wales and South West England.
The call for evidence comes after the recent
consultation on the fourth round of the successful
Contracts for Difference auction. This new consultation
builds on that work to provide the government with
evidence to base its decisions on future support for
marine renewables.
