Plans to harness the vast renewable energy potential of the Celtic Sea have taken a significant step forward, as The Crown Estate announced that its latest leasing round for floating offshore wind farms has entered the final stage. a5v7

The initiative – part of Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5 – covers three strategically identified sites off the coasts of Wales and South West England. Once operational, these floating wind farms could generate up to 4.5 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power over four million homes, and mark the UK’s largest commitment yet to floating wind technology. 

Following an extensive stakeholder engagement process spanning more than three years, shortlisted bidders have now progressed past the initial evaluation (ITT Stage 1) and will enter the final phase of the tender (ITT Stage 2), culminating in an auction later this spring. Lease agreements with successful bidders are expected to be signed by summer 2025.

According to The Crown Estate, in a major development, bidders have also identified a number of ports across the region as potential bases for turbine assembly and deployment. Among the most prominent are Port Talbot and the Port of Bristol, both of which are poised to play central roles in delivering the new infrastructure and ing the wider industrial supply chain. 

Gus Jaspert, Managing Director of Marine at The Crown Estate, emphasised the scale and importance of the opportunity:

“Floating offshore wind presents a once-in-a-generation chance for the UK to take a leading role in a burgeoning global industry. The developments we’re progressing in the Celtic Sea go beyond clean energy — they represent a pathway to long-term, sustainable economic growth for communities in Wales, South West England and beyond.

“With strong from Government, and close collaboration across the public and private sectors, we have a real chance to establish the UK as a global hub for floating wind expertise. Our focus is not only on delivering renewable energy but also on securing lasting social and economic value for the nation,” he added.

Research commissioned by The Crown Estate has forecast that the Round 5 projects could generate more than 5,000 jobs and deliver up to £1.4 billion in economic benefit. The initiative also prioritises investment in port infrastructure, as developers plan to work closely with regional facilities such as Swansea, Pembroke Port, Plymouth, Falmouth, and even the Port of Brest in .

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband reflected on the wider strategic significance of the project said that  “this is more than just an energy development — it’s a bold statement of intent. By unlocking the potential of the Celtic Sea, we’re not only advancing our renewable energy ambitions but also creating new economic opportunities across the South West and Wales.

“Floating offshore wind is a cornerstone of our Plan for Change, and our continued investment in this sector strengthens our energy security, s British industry, and ensures we’re prepared for a net-zero future.”

Looking beyond Round 5, The Crown Estate has indicated that this marks the first phase in a broader rollout of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea. According to its Future of Offshore Wind report, the region could accommodate up to 12GW of new capacity, with up to 10GW potentially leased by 2030 through future rounds.

As Britain races towards its net-zero goals, the floating turbines – which may reach 300 metres in height and rest on football-pitch-sized platforms – symbolise both engineering ingenuity and a greener, more resilient economic future.