The UK government has launched a consultation on the proposed reforms for this year's AR7 Contract for Difference (CfD) auction with the goal of clearing the way for more offshore wind projects. 111f4l

The proposed reforms include relaxing the eligibility criteria for planning consent for fixed-bottom offshore wind projects, which will help accelerate new developments.

This consultation also addresses changes to the information the Secretary of State uses to inform the final budget for fixed-bottom offshore wind, including greater visibility into the sealed bid information.

Additionally, the consultation proposes changes to the CfD contract , which would provide greater certainty in the market once contracts are awarded, including the consideration of extending the current 15-year CfD period to reduce overall project costs.

Another point raised is the implementation of agreed policy changes and routine updates.

The document also provides policy updates. The AR7 Allocation Round is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025.