Communities across the East Riding of Yorkshire are being called upon to shape the future of one of the world’s most ambitious renewable energy projects. SSE Renewables and Equinor have launched the statutory consultation phase for Dogger Bank D, the proposed fourth phase of what is already set to become the world’s largest offshore wind project. This isn’t just about building wind turbines; it’s about engaging with local communities to ensure that the development is sustainable, beneficial, and aligned with the needs and concerns of the people who live there.
Dogger Bank D is a monumental undertaking. Located around 210km off the Yorkshire coast, the project proposes up to 113 fixed-bottom wind turbines spread across a 262km² area. With up to 1.5GW of installed capacity, it has the potential to power millions of homes and significantly contribute to the UK’s renewable energy targets. But the scale of the project also means it will have a substantial impact on the local environment and communities, making the consultation phase a critical step in the process.
The consultation, running from 10 June to 5 August, includes six in-person events and two online sessions. This is more than just a box-ticking exercise. It’s a genuine opportunity for local residents and stakeholders to review project plans, ask questions, and submit feedback. The developers are not just listening; they are actively seeking to incorporate local knowledge and concerns into their plans.
Sophie Large, senior project manager for Dogger Bank D, emphasised the importance of this engagement. “We are looking forward to welcoming the public to our consultation events for Dogger Bank D and providing the opportunity for the community to learn more about our proposals,” she said. “It’s important to us that local communities share their deep knowledge of the region and continue to review, and be informed about, our plans.”
The proposals are comprehensive, including two offshore platforms, inter-array and export cables, a landfall point near Skipsea, and a 55km underground cable route to an onshore converter station near Cottingham. The site may also co-locate energy storage and balancing infrastructure, further enhancing the project’s potential to support the UK’s energy transition.
The developers will also publish a Preliminary Environmental Information Report (PEIR), which sets out the environmental studies completed to date and outlines potential effects and mitigation measures. A non-technical summary will be available at events and online, ensuring that the information is accessible to all.
This consultation phase is not just about gathering feedback; it’s about building a dialogue. The developers have made it clear that the feedback from this consultation will be used to refine the final application for a Development Consent Order (DCO). This is a significant commitment, and it sets a precedent for how large-scale renewable energy projects should engage with local communities.
The energy sector is at a crossroads. As we transition to a low-carbon future, projects like Dogger Bank D will play a pivotal role. But for these projects to be successful, they must have the support of local communities. This consultation phase is a step in the right direction, but it’s just the beginning. The developers must follow through on their commitments, incorporating feedback into their plans and keeping the community informed throughout the project’s lifecycle.
The energy sector is watching. If Dogger Bank D can set a new standard for community engagement and environmental stewardship, it could pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive energy future. But if it falls short, it could set back the sector’s progress. The ball is in the developers’ court, and the eyes of the world are on them.