The UK government’s Welsh secretary, Jo Stevens, has highlighted the potential of RWE’s proposed 775MW Awel y Môr offshore wind farm to deliver significant economic benefits to north Wales. During a visit to the port of Mostyn in Flintshire last week, Stevens emphasized the project’s capacity to create or protect 2,000 jobs across the supply chain, contributing to the region’s growth and prosperity.
The 50-turbine extension of the operational 576MW Gwynt y Môr is slated to come online by 2031, following its success in securing a Contracts for Difference (CfD) in the recent Allocation Round 7. Stevens underscored the UK government’s commitment to developing home-grown clean power, stating, “The UK Government is working with investors to develop home-grown clean power which will secure our energy supply and bring down bills for good. Wales is at the centre of this and projects like Awel y Môr will help us achieve those goals.”
RWE’s project lead for Awel y Môr, Philippa Powell, echoed this sentiment, noting the significance of the CfD success. “Following our success in the most recent CfD round, it was a pleasure to be able to update the Secretary of State for Wales on our plans for Awel y Môr for the coming year, as we work towards a final investment decision,” Powell said.
This development could mark a pivotal moment for the UK’s offshore wind sector, demonstrating the potential for large-scale projects to drive regional economic growth while contributing to national energy security and decarbonization goals. The focus on job creation and supply chain benefits underscores the broader economic implications of the energy transition, potentially influencing future policy and investment strategies. As the sector evolves, the interplay between government support, private investment, and regional development will be crucial in shaping the UK’s energy landscape.