Offshore wind policy statement 2020 update: consultation analysis

4. Conclusion

Although opinion was relatively evenly split, marginally more responses (40) indicated the consultation’s proposal to increase the Scottish Government’s offshore wind ambition to up to 40GW of new offshore wind energy by 2035-2040 was appropriate than not (38).

Many responses that were supportive of the proposed ambition noted that it signals the Scottish Government’s long-term commitment to offshore wind and the potential for economic benefits. However, they also noted challenges to its delivery including policy and delivery alignment between the Scottish Government, the UK Government and agencies. Some responses questioned how the proposed ambition was articulated.

Many responses not in favour of the proposed ambition cited concerns including impacts on the environment, nature, and other marine users, and a lack of benefit to communities. They also questioned the deliverability and credibility of the ambition being consulted on, pointing to issues such as wider infrastructure constraints.

Common themes in responses that suggested additional actions should be taken largely related to better understanding and reducing the impact on the environment, ensuring that communities benefit directly from developments and the Scottish Government, the UK Government, and relevant agencies, working together to ensure policy alignment.

Where permission was received, the consultation responses have been published on the Scottish Government’s website at https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781806436699. Readers are encouraged to read the responses should they wish to understand in detail the variety of responses received.