From today (15 January 2021) developers will be able to apply for seabed rights to build Scotland’s next generation of offshore wind farms.  

Having launched ScotWind Leasing in June 2020, Crown Estate Scotland has today opened the application window for registered developers to submit their applications. The closing date for submitting applications is 31 March 2021.

Opening the application window follows the publication by Marine Scotland of their Sectoral Marine Plan for Offshore Wind Energy outlining the areas suitable for development.

Crown Estate Scotland has now made available to registered applicants final technical details of the application requirements including provisions reflecting the Sectoral Marine Plan, which will enable them to make informed applications.

John Robertson, Head of Energy and Infrastructure at Crown Estate Scotland, said: 
“Today is an important milestone in the development of ScotWind Leasing, and we are looking forward to receiving applications and continuing to work with all interested groups over the coming months.

“Over the last three years, we’ve engaged extensively with industry and other interested groups about the goals and ambitions of ScotWind Leasing. This has helped ensure a robust and clear process that can successfully deliver the projects of the future and play a big role in Scotland’s net zero ambitions.”

KeyFacts Energy: Licensing news