The Crown Estate has taken a significant step in the UK’s offshore wind sector by awarding seabed rights for two massive floating wind farms in the Celtic Sea. Equinor and the joint venture Gwynt Glas, comprising EDF Renewables UK and ESB, have secured the rights to develop two 1.5GW projects each. This move marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s renewable energy landscape, with the potential to reshape the industry and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources.
The awards come after the fifth round of the UK’s offshore wind leasing programme, with each winner agreeing to pay an annual option fee of £350 per megawatt. The selected projects are part of a broader initiative to harness the Celtic Sea’s wind potential, with a third 1.5GW project development area still to be announced by the end of September 2025. Together, these projects could provide up to 4.5GW of renewable capacity, enough to power approximately four million homes.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband hailed the development, stating, “Floating offshore wind will be transformative for economic growth in Wales and the south west, unlocking thousands of jobs in places such as Port Talbot and Bristol, bolstering our energy security and delivering industrial renewal.” He emphasised the Celtic Sea’s potential in supporting the UK’s mission to become a clean energy superpower, aiming to reduce energy bills through the Plan for Change.
Gwynt Glas, in particular, is focusing on maximising socio-economic benefits. The joint venture is collaborating with DP Energy’s Pembrokeshire-based team to leverage local expertise and promote skills development through educational institutions in Wales. EDF Renewables UK CEO Matthieu Hue expressed enthusiasm for the project, saying, “We look forward to further developing the Gwynt Glas offshore wind farm, helping the UK maintain a market-leading position in floating wind and recognising the important role that floating wind can play in the UK’s ambition towards reaching net zero.”
The development phase will now advance, adhering to UK government guidelines for comprehensive stakeholder consultations. Key project details, including size, turbine location, and installed capacity, will be determined during this phase. The consenting process is expected to take between three and five years, with full operation anticipated by the early 2030s.
This development could significantly impact the offshore wind sector, potentially leading to the addition of between 4GW and 10GW of floating wind capacity by 2030. The Celtic Sea’s untapped potential could drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance energy security. Moreover, the focus on socio-economic benefits and local collaboration sets a precedent for future projects, ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy development are shared widely.
As the UK continues to push towards its net-zero ambitions, the success of these projects could pave the way for further innovation and investment in floating wind technology. The industry will be watching closely as these developments unfold, with the potential to set new standards for renewable energy projects both in the UK and globally.