RenewableUK RUK16-032-6 Offshore Wind Energy Owners’ Workshop Manual

About this manual

This manual provides an overview of offshore wind energy in the UK, covering its growth, technology, and economic impact. It details how wind farms are built and maintained, and explains the engineering challenges involved in installing turbines in deep waters. The document also highlights the UK’s potential for offshore wind, with estimates of 120GW of capacity using waters under 50m depth.

The manual includes historical context, such as the first offshore wind farm in Vindeby, Denmark, and the UK’s early projects like the one at Blyth. It also discusses technological advancements, including the V164-8.0MW turbine, and the economic and environmental benefits of offshore wind energy.

What's inside

• Introduction
• What is offshore wind power?
• The history of offshore wind
• UK manufacturing case study: MHI Vestas
• Cost reduction: A prerequisite for growth

Frequently asked questions

What percentage of the UK's electricity do current offshore wind farms generate?

Offshore wind farms currently supply close to 7% of the nation's electricity.

What percentage of the UK's sea area do offshore wind farms occupy?

Offshore wind farms take up just over 0.1% of the area of the UK's sea.

How often has the UK installed a wind turbine in the water since 2010?

Since 2010, the UK has been putting a wind turbine in the water on average every 40 hours.