SCOTLAND is to achieve a world first today when the only floating wind farm is opened off the Aberdeenshire coast.
It is hoped that the Hywind project will generate enough electricity for 20,000 homes.
The project has been developed by Norway’s state energy company Statoil, with floating turbines installed over 2.5 square miles of water near Peterhead.
Average wind speed at the unique site, which will be officially opened by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, is around 10 metres per second.
Sturgeon said: “Scotland has developed an international reputation for modern, renewable energy technologies and Hywind Scotland, the world’s first floating wind farm, is testament to that.
“This pilot project underlines the potential of Scotland’s huge offshore wind resource and positions Scotland at the forefront of the global race to develop the next generation of offshore wind technologies.
“In addition to the green benefits of renewable energy, it also has a very significant contribution to make to our economy.”
She went on: “I’m pleased Scottish suppliers have contributed to the Hywind project from the development through to the production phase and are still involved to investigate long-term potential for floating wind.”
Gina Hanrahan, acting head of policy at WWF Scotland, also welcomed the opening, stating: “With around a quarter of Europe’s offshore wind resource in Scotland, it’s great to see the world’s first floating wind farm inaugurated off our coast.
“Offshore wind is already an industrial success story across the UK, cutting emissions, creating jobs and dramatically driving down costs.
“By demonstrating the commercial viability of floating wind, Scotland can help to develop the industry in new frontiers and deeper waters.
“With this kind of innovation and investment, and continued political support, Scotland will continue to power towards our target of securing half of all our energy needs from renewable sources by 2030.”
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