Scotland offshore wind projects at risk from UK energy plan

GMB Scotland has warned that the UK Government’s upcoming Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP) could jeopardize offshore wind projects in Scotland. The union expressed concerns that the plan might lead to the “delay, reduction or cancellation” of significant initiatives, specifically the ScotWind program.

In a letter to Miatta Fahnbulleh, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, GMB Scotland Secretary Louise Gilmour emphasized that the SSEP must protect job creation, skills, and supply chains. Gilmour noted that if the plan undermines confidence in ScotWind, particularly regarding floating offshore wind technology, the industry’s potential to generate employment could dwindle.

The SSEP is intended to map optimal locations for electricity and hydrogen infrastructure across Great Britain from 2030 to 2050 to guide clean energy investment. However, Scottish officials and labor representatives argue the plan must fully reflect Scotland’s existing offshore wind pipeline to ensure the region meets its renewable energy potential.