With such valuable social and economic value and the continual reduction in cost of energy, it is easy to see why offshore wind is becoming so appealing. The success seen in Europe has created expectations around the globe that offshore wind will generate economic value as well as deliver a low cost of energy to power sustainable, green economies, regionally.
There is also an ever-increasing gap between the “raw” MWs that many nations are targeting ahead of 2030-2050 renewable energy plans and the “qualified” MWs that can actually be installed by 2030-2050. As the size and complexity of projects increase, greater emphasis must be placed on reducing inefficiencies during the permitting process to ensure projects can be delivered on time and reach these targets. The offshore wind industry has a clear vision on the stakeholders and challenges that typically cause delays, and these challenges must be addressed and resolved by collaboration with the industry and policymakers before MW targets can be considered qualified and offshore wind can grow as a sector.
This report provides a snapshot of the industry today, including lessons learned on support schemes, industrial development and job creation, grid connection, cost reduction and supply chain, and health and safety to further drive growth of the global offshore wind market.