Wednesday 16 July 2014

Government backs wind farm offshore Sussex

A new offshore wind farm which is expected to produce enough electricity to power around 450,000 homes has been given the green light by the Government.

The Rampion wind farm off the coast of Sussex will consist of up to 175 turbines and is expected to support more than 750 jobs as well as bring £2 billion worth of investment into the UK’s economy.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey said: “We’re driving investment in our energy security and our plans have made us number one in the world for investment in offshore wind energy.

“This project is great news for Sussex, providing green jobs as well as driving business opportunities right across the country in a sector with a clear roadmap for long-term growth.”

Developer E.ON expects construction to start next year and power generation to begin in 2018/19. For the wind farm to go ahead the company will need to make a final investment decision on the project and apply for subsidies.