UK launches offshore wind inquiry

The UK Environmental Audit Committee has launched the Technological Innovation and Climate Change inquiry, with first focus on offshore wind power.

Following the Government’s Offshore Wind Sector Deal in March 2019, the Committee will consider the opportunities that will maximize the industry’s potential and the challenges it faces in delivering greater capacity.

The Committee is inviting written submissions to inform its first session on offshore wind.

Submissions should focus on the efficiency of the Sector Deal, the support of the Government, technological advances in offshore wind, the environmental and social impacts of installations, among others.

“During this inquiry, my Committee will be considering a number of different technological innovations and whether the Government is grasping this potential and offering the support they need to succeed,” said Environmental Audit Committee Chairman, Philip Dunne MP.

“The first area we will be looking at will be offshore wind, which is already contributing significantly to UK electricity generation, and I look forward to learning how we can make an even bigger success of this industry.”

Details on formal evidence sessions are expected to be announced in due course.