A new report from RenewableUK advocates for changes in the planning system to accelerate the co-location of offshore wind farms with battery storage (BESS) and green hydrogen projects. The report, titled "Offshore Wind Co-Location: Integrating Offshore Wind with Flexibility", emphasizes the potential of shared grid infrastructure to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve energy security in the UK. 551l5y

The need for greater flexibility 1464f

As the UK advances toward its ambitious renewable energy targets, integrating flexible energy solutions with offshore wind is essential. The report states that offshore wind will be the backbone of the future energy system, with projected capacity ranging between 81.4GW and 102.6GW by 2050. However, without significant investment in storage and transmission infrastructure, excess renewable power may go unused due to curtailment issues.

Scotland, in particular, faces challenges in balancing offshore wind development with local demand. With offshore wind capacity far exceeding regional energy consumption, co-located storage solutions will be vital in ensuring renewable power can be transported efficiently to demand centers in England and beyond.

Addressing key challenges 4h1w5d

The report highlights the difficulties developers face in integrating battery storage and green hydrogen production with offshore wind farms. Currently, only 3MW of battery storage is operational in UK waters alongside offshore wind, although an additional 600MW has been approved for future deployment. Several developers are also exploring opportunities to integrate green hydrogen solutions into their projects.

RenewableUK underscores the crucial role of energy storage in ensuring grid stability and maximizing renewable energy usage. Batteries provide short- and long-term energy storage, while green hydrogen—produced using surplus renewable power—offers a flexible solution to manage fluctuations in electricity supply and demand. By addressing curtailment issues, these technologies can ensure a steady supply of clean power.

Source: RenewableUK

Policy recommendations 2h6o17

The report outlines a series of policy recommendations targeting the UK government, Ofgem, The Crown Estate, Crown Estate Scotland, and local planning authorities. Key proposals include:

• Reforming Contracts for Difference (CfD) auctions to incentivize co-location of offshore wind with energy storage solutions.
  
  

• Streamlining planning processes by allowing developers to seek consent for offshore wind and energy storage projects simultaneously, rather than separately.
  
  

• Improving grid connection efficiency by utilizing existing infrastructure more effectively to accommodate additional renewable generation capacity.

Unlocking investment and innovation 4v2m3e

The report calls for greater regulatory clarity and financial incentives to encourage investment in offshore wind co-location projects. It argues that co-located business models can drive efficiency, reduce reliance on costly grid upgrades, and strengthen the UK's energy security.

By addressing existing regulatory barriers and streamlining the development process, the UK can unlock the full potential of offshore wind and energy storage integration—creating a cleaner, more resilient energy system for the future.