Offshore Windfarms Could Provide More Energy Than the Planet Needs

offshore windfarm on a clear day

A thorough study of the planet’s coastlines has found that offshore windfarms could provide more electricity than the world needs alone – even if they are only built in shallower waters near the shore and in windy regions.

offshore windfarm on a clear day
The overlap between the UK's declining gas and oil industry and the increasing offshore wind sector could provide major economic benefits for the UK.

An analysis by the International Energy Agency (IEA) has discovered that if offshore windfarms were built across all useable sites which are no further than 60km (37 miles) off the coast, and where coastal waters are no deeper than 60 metres, they could easily generate 36,000 terrawatt hours of renewable electricity a year. This would comfortably meet the current demand for electricity of 23,000 terrawatt hours per year globally.

“Offshore wind currently provides just 0.3% of global power generation, but its potential is vast.”

 – Fatih Birol, IEA Executive Director

The  IEA study predicts that offshore wind power will grow to emerge as a $1tn (£780bn) industry in the next 20 years, proving to be the next great energy revolution. With global supplies of renewable electricity growing faster than previously expected, offshore wind power could drive the world’s expansion of clean energy due to technological breakthroughs and plummeting costs. For example, by the early 2020s, Dogger Bank in the North Sea will be home to the largest offshore wind turbines ever built.

offshore windfarm from below

With the UK committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the overlap between the UK’s declining gas and oil industry and the increasing offshore wind sector could provide major economic benefits for the UK.

At ethical partnership we are committed to the value that planning can bring to reversing the climate crisis and are excited that the new plans for Dogger Bank will hopefully make renewable energy cheaper and more readily-available for the consumer. We understand that value that renewable energy can bring to any project; from large masterplans to smaller designs we always consider how renewable energy could bring benefits to a scheme.

We are motivated by our values, offering a range of services in planning, housing, architecture, energy, heritage and sustainability. To find out about how businesses can reduce their impact on climate change, such as switching to renewable energy, have a look at our 10 P’s campaign. To find out how we can help you, feel free to contact us or reach out to us on our social media – LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

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