Environmental experts have given the green light to a massive expansion of offshore windfarms and continued development of North Sea oil and gas reserves.
A study commissioned by the Energy and Climate Change Department confirmed there is scope to build another 5,000-7,000 wind turbines around the coast and continue offshore hydrocarbon exploitation.
Restrictions would be imposed where seismic activity or pile-driving could harm dolphins or other sea mammals.
Scientists carried out detailed studies of marine life and seabirds for the Strategic Environmental Assessment.
Although the report, which is subject to a 12-week consultation, gives a general go-ahead to erect thousands of turbines, each proposed windfarm would have to go through the normal process.
Caveats attached to the report mean that windfarms will generally have to be more than 22 miles from the coast.
Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband stressed that maximising renewable power was vital.
He added: “This report provides a real advance in our understanding of the ecology and geology of the UK marine environment, so we can continue to ensure that projects like windfarms are built in the most suitable places and that we will also protect the natural environment.”
Crown Estate Commission marine estate director Rob Hastings said the study would ensure that industry was ready for the challenge of handing the next licensing round.
And he and predicted there would be “massive opportunities for jobs in engineering and manufacturing”
Friends of the Earth renewable energy campaigner Nick Rau said: “We’re delighted that the government has confirmed the massive potential for offshore wind energy.
“It must now make sure that it becomes a reality.”
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