First Minister welcomes major offshore wind contracts bringing thousands of jobs to Wales

Daniel Bevan - Editor

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Two offshore wind projects off the Welsh coast have secured UK Government support in the latest Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction, which is expected to deliver thousands of jobs and strengthen Wales’ position in the renewable energy sector.

The Awel y Mor fixed offshore wind project in north Wales and the Erebus floating offshore wind project off the coast of Pembrokeshire were both successful in the allocation round, providing long-term price certainty for developers and unlocking investment.

Awel y Mor is forecast to create around 2,000 jobs during its construction phase, along with a further 50 roles to support delivery with developer RWE.

Meanwhile, the Erebus project is expected to support more than 600 jobs during construction and around 500 additional roles across the supply chain.

Erebus is particularly significant for the Welsh renewables industry as it is a floating offshore wind project, helping position Wales as a leader in the emerging floating offshore wind sector.

First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said: “I’m delighted that two Welsh offshore wind projects have secured contracts in the latest UK auction.

“This demonstrates how Wales is well placed to build on its existing capacity for renewable energy, to reap the benefits of these new projects bringing many high-quality jobs and wider economic benefits to our economy.”

She added: “The floating offshore project off the coast of Pembrokeshire will help kickstart the new floating offshore wind industry for Wales and, together with extending the fixed offshore wind generation in north Wales, will utilise the latest technology and help to reduce bills and boost our energy security.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said: “Wales is in a fantastic position to support the new floating wind industry and the additional fixed offshore wind projects.

“We will work with these companies to ensure our ports are used, and that our supply chains are in a position to support this industry.

“We know we have the ability to deliver on the skills already – our offer is recognised as globally competitive, and we will continue to build on this.”