Independent report highlights opportunities to build on UK's leadership in offshore wind

Responding to the independent report from Tim Pick, UK Offshore Wind Champion, published today, Grace Millman, Offshore Sector Lead at Regen, commented: ‍

"Today's independent report from the Offshore Wind Champion provides welcome recognition of the extraordinary success story that is the UK's offshore wind sector, but it does not shy away from highlighting the harsh reality of the current political and regulatory backdrop which is potentially putting the UK's leadership position in offshore wind at risk.

Regen welcomes the report's recommendations, particularly its crystal-clear message to government on the urgent need to upgrade our national grid. It is also positive to see recognition that the current Contracts for Difference mechanism could be built upon to recognise value that goes beyond just price, including supply chain development, energy system benefits, and support in delivering a just transition."

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Jack Adkins, Senior Energy Analyst and author of Regen's offshore wind report, Go West!, commented:

"It is fantastic to see Regen's Go West! analysis of the energy system benefits of a more geographically diverse offshore wind portfolio referenced in today's report. Developing offshore wind in more diverse locations off our coasts is not only crucial for increasing system resilience and reducing price volatility, but can also help in 'levelling up' infrastructure and communities around the UK.

The report rightly notes that major policy decisions have knock-on costs for consumers and so it is crucial that decisions being made around offshore infrastructure are viewed in the broader energy system context. The focus on high-level, national strategic planning is very welcome and we hope that the government takes these recommendations on board."

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