Scotland’s Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, has emphasized the urgent need for the UK government to reform the grid connections process and the Contracts for Difference (CfD) policy to facilitate the advancement of offshore wind farms in Scotland. Speaking at the Scottish Renewables Offshore Wind 2025 event in Glasgow, Forbes highlighted that the current network connections system poses significant barriers to the development of Scottish offshore wind projects.
Forbes stated, “Otherwise, there is a risk that we will be left behind,” underscoring the importance of collaboration between Holyrood, the UK government, the regulator Ofgem, and the system operator NESO to address these challenges. She stressed that offshore wind represents a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity for economic growth and job creation in Scotland.
Key Points from Kate Forbes’ Address:
- Need for Reform: Forbes called for an overhaul of the grid connections process and CfD policy to support offshore wind development.
- Budget for Future Auctions: She urged the UK government to ensure adequate budget allocation in the upcoming AR7 and future auctions to support both fixed-bottom and floating wind projects.
- Collaborative Engagement: Holyrood is actively engaging with the UK government on these issues to foster progress.
- Economic Potential: Forbes emphasized that every investment in offshore wind brings Scotland closer to achieving long-term economic prosperity and job creation.
Forbes concluded by stating, “We cannot afford for there to be a pause. Instead, we need more investment, bold steps, and commitment from every corner.” She reiterated that the Scottish government is ready to take bold actions to realize these objectives, focusing not just on meeting targets but on creating lasting wealth for the people of Scotland.
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