World’s biggest wind farm given the go-ahead

Hornsea wind farm will have a capacity of 1.2 gigawatts and will cover approximately 407km² of sea.

Maf Smith, Renewable’s UK deputy chief executive, said: “The decision is an important step I making this historic project a reality. It signals the start of creating a new landmark in the North Sea.

“Its size is guaranteed to bring a multitude of benefits to the UK, in particular, a huge amount of inward investment and the creation of local jobs on the east coast of England.”

The wind farm will be built by DONG Energy 120km off the Yorkshire coast and will be fully commissioned in 2020.

It is also set to play an important part in meeting the Paris climate commitments, and lead the UK to create much needed new energy infrastructure.

Dale Rodmell, assistant chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s organisation commented on the development of the wind farm, arguing that collaboration is key in order to minimise the impact Hornsea will have on fishermen.

He commented: “The physical presence of the wind farm off the coast of Yorkshire will inevitably be a constraining factor on fishing in the area.”

“However, the fishing industry has worked closely with offshore developers for many years to promote a better understanding of one another’s needs, to ensure that both industries can coexist.”

Mr Rodmell concluded: “It will be crucial for the two industries to collaborate on how to deliver a solution which will protect traditional fishing grounds while also offering wind energy alternatives.”

By Alice Mason