Offshore wind power: A renewable energy solution or commercial non-starter? | 13th May 2009

So, you've heard about offshore wind farms. Perhaps you've even seen one - after all, they are an increasingly familiar sight around UK & European coastlines. But just what is the future for large-scale offshore wind plants? 

Chris Stubbs, WSP's renewable energy specialist, will be attending the Offshore Wind & Transmission Forum in Brussels on the 27^th & 28^th May where he joins a panel to consider the issues.  The panel will address some of the challenges facing the industry, particularly in relation to design, operation and maintenance of large scale plants.

So what is our view?  Chris believes that without crucial support mechanisms the cost implications associated with the construction and operation of offshore wind plants is a potential deterrent for current and future investors. "Offshore wind is considerably more expensive than onshore wind and other renewable technologies and, for investors, the return on investment could be much lower.  What is required is additional financial support mechanisms such as grant funding, tax breaks or multiple renewable obligation certificates. This can turn the tide for investors - without it this industry will struggle to scale up".

With the conference audience set to include offshore wind project developers, European institutions, Environmental NGO's and professionals from the Legal & Policy and Finance & Investment sectors, it is an excellent platform for us to raise our profile within the industry and enhance our reputation as global a consultancy delivering innovative and creative wind power solutions.

If you would like to learn more about our wind and renewable energy services, please contact chris.stubbs@wspgroup.com.