Inch Cape Offshore Limited (ICOL) has today announced a new “alternative” application for consent to Marine Scotland for a 70 turbine development of the Angus coast.
ICOL confirmed that a fresh proposal had been submitted following “new technological advantages” in the offshore wind sector.
The alternative proposal that would see fewer, taller and more powerful turbines and a reduced number of export cables, which could significantly cut construction time and costs.
The existing consent, granted in 2013, is still valid for the proposed development, planned 9 miles off the Angus coastline.
Following a recent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), ICOL described the new application as “step forward for the project”, following the launch of a site investigation in July.
The recent application follows a number of consultation events which took place in Arbroath and St Andrews last year where residents gave feedback on the development.
Ian Johnson, ICOL project manager, said: “New learnings and technological advances create an opportunity for us to improve on the original proposals.
“With an approved proposal already under our belt this wasn’t something we were required to do, but felt it was important to integrate new advances where possible and consider what we’ve learnt since our existing consent was granted in 2013 that could further minimise our impacts.
“We look forward to engaging with local communities again to discuss our new proposal and answer any questions they may have”.
The Inch Cape offshore wind development is 100% owned by Red Rock Power through Chinese investment by SDIC Power Holdings, who also bankrolled 25% of the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm development currently in construction.
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