Offshore Wind Testing Project Proposed for Shetland Waters

The Scottish Government has proposed a new offshore wind initiative that could see a test and demonstration project implemented in the waters surrounding Shetland. This initiative is part of a broader consultation regarding an updated marine plan for offshore wind energy, which includes the potential for an additional 1 gigawatt (GW) of capacity across five regions in Scotland, with Shetland earmarked to receive a portion.

The proposed development comes amidst ongoing discussions about two offshore wind farms, Stoura and Arven, which are projected to deliver a combined capacity of 2.8 GW. These projects have faced significant opposition from local fishermen, concerned that their traditional fishing grounds may be compromised.

The recent consultation has sparked varied responses, particularly regarding the allocation of the proposed 1 GW. The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) has voiced its disapproval, arguing that without adequate mitigation measures, the introduction of these test and demonstration (T&D) sites could exacerbate existing pressures on fishing communities, thereby threatening food security. They emphasize the need for meaningful engagement in decision-making processes concerning marine spatial planning.

Shetland Islands Council has also expressed concerns, labeling the proposed allocation of 200 MW for the region as “disproportionate.” The council’s response to the consultation raised questions about the reasoning behind situating T&D sites outside already designated offshore wind farm areas.

The updated marine plan outlines a spatial planning framework for offshore wind energy, taking into account environmental, social, and economic factors. It aims to address the ongoing development of offshore wind technology, which the Scottish Government acknowledges is progressing rapidly. The plan indicates that T&D projects will not constitute a new seabed leasing round but will be assessed on an ad hoc basis by Crown Estate Scotland as demand arises.

The T&D projects are intended to facilitate research and testing of new technologies in marine environments. These projects will likely be smaller in scale, with individual sites capped at 100 MW. The government has assured that T&D sites will avoid significant conflict with existing offshore infrastructure, shipping routes, and high-density fishing areas.

The SFF has underscored the necessity for fishing interests to be included in key decision-making processes, calling for greater involvement in discussions surrounding T&D site selection. The federation reiterated its stance for a moratorium on any offshore wind developments until further assessments can be undertaken.

A socio-economic assessment linked to the marine plan suggests that offshore wind development could yield a gross value added impact of between £70 million and £100 million to Scottish fisheries over the next fifty years, with Shetland potentially seeing an impact ranging from £24 million to £35 million. However, this could also lead to job losses in the fishing sector, highlighting a complex balance between economic benefits from offshore wind and the protection of traditional fishing activities.

The Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA) echoed the concerns raised by the SFF, stating that it is critical to halt experimental projects in the marine environment before irreversible damage occurs.

Shetland Islands Council’s response emphasized the need for clarity on the T&D projects, arguing that the region’s share of the proposed 1 GW should realistically be around 72.5 MW rather than the suggested 200 MW. This adjustment would align with Shetland’s existing offshore wind capacity and help mitigate the pressures on local marine resources.

In contrast, Orkney Islands Council has shown support for the broader T&D proposal, particularly in light of the European Marine Energy Centre‘s efforts to establish a national floating wind test centre west of Orkney. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) also expressed support for the T&D initiative, suggesting that such projects could contribute to innovative solutions that promote nature-positive offshore wind development.

A public engagement event held in Lerwick on August 1, 2023, attracted limited participation, with concerns raised regarding the environmental implications of the T&D projects, including potential impacts on seabirds and marine mammals. The feedback reflected apprehension about the loss of access to productive fishing grounds and the unknown consequences for migratory routes of species such as mackerel and herring.

The Scottish Government reported receiving 211 responses to the consultation, with opinions divided: 97 respondents opposed the inclusion of T&D projects, while 53 supported it, and 62 were undecided. As the government prepares to revise the draft updated plan, it will consider these formal responses and any additional relevant information. If significant changes are necessary, further assessments or consultations may be warranted before the final plan is presented for approval by Scottish ministers.