Offshore wind farms delivering benefits

North Hoyle and Scroby Sands offshore wind farms produced enough energy to power almost 80,000 homes and saved more than 250,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the first annual reports from the facilities. Also detailed in the reports were positive results on wildlife impact and safety measures, meaning that the two wind farms are providing valuable test cases for large-scale offshore stations.

The progress of the two wind farms was welcomed by Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks and renewable industry figures.

“It was suggested earlier this week that the UK has the potential to become the Saudi Arabia of offshore wind energy. There are hurdles to be overcome before we achieve that status but the resource is there and we must harness it,