DONG Energy has acquired a 33.3% stake in the first two offshore wind projects in the Hornsea zone from SMart Wind for about £15million.
The developments, Heron Wind and Njord, have a potential total capacity of up to one gigawatt.
The Danish company also has an option to acquire the remaining 66.7% of the shares at a fixed market price.
In addition, Dong has acquired an option over an additional 1GW from the Hornsea zone.
Energy Secretary Chris Huhne said: “There are vast economic gains to be made from offshore wind as a key element of the green economy, securing investment and supporting jobs and growth.
“I am delighted that Dong Energy, a major global player, is continuing its involvement in UK offshore wind into Round 3 with these projects off the east coast of England. This is yet another vote of confidence in the UK, as the world’s biggest offshore wind market, with the biggest pipeline of projects to 2020.”
Dong chief executive Anders Eldrup said: “Participation in Round 3 is a natural step for Dong Energy, taking into account our leading position within offshore wind and our existing presence and focus on the UK market.
“Hornsea is an attractive zone and the agreement with SMart Wind provides Dong Energy access to development projects, which fits well into our mid-term project pipeline.”
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