We are investigating an area in the Territorial Seas of the Isle of Man, to the east of the island. The project is at an early stage of development, and as such its final layout and size are not known. Subject to our investigations, and the outcome of future consenting processes, the windfarm could generate renewable electricity to support the Isle of Man’s own Net Zero, economic development and sustainability ambitions. While the number of wind turbine generators and their sizes are not yet known, this will be considered during the planning and consenting process.
About the project
Ørsted was awarded "Preferred Bidder" status in November 2014, following a tender process conducted by the Isle of Man Government earlier in the year.
Ørsted has now signed an Agreement for Lease (AfL) with the Isle of Man Government. This AfL gives Ørsted the right to investigate an agreed area within the Isle of Man Territorial Seas, located approximately 6-12 nautical miles off the east coast of the island, to determine its suitability for an offshore wind farm.
It will take a number of years to complete these investigations, after which there will be an option to execute a lease with the Isle of Man Government for the seabed over the lifetime of the wind farm, if conditions are suitable.
Planning Consent will be needed before a lease is signed with the Isle of Man Government and if conditions are not suitable for an offshore wind farm Ørsted will hand the site back to the Isle of Man Government.
Subject to the specific findings of the investigations throughout the development stage, construction activities would be likely to take place post-2025.
Project Description
The site under investigation for the proposed wind farm is located within the Territorial Seas of the Isle of Man, to the east of the island.
The project is at an early stage of development, and as such its final layout and size are not known. It is important to note that the final size of the windfarm will be less than the area currently earmarked by the AfL for investigation.
Environmental Assessment
Ørsted will be producing an Environmental Statement to support the applications for Marine Infrastructure Licence and other consents needed for the export cable installation inside and outside of Isle of Man waters. Work has started on the production of an EIA Scoping Report for the potential offshore works.
Other information
- Ørsted awarded Preferred bidder status
- Signed an Agreement for lease November 2015
- Now investigating territory 6-12 miles off the east coast of the Isle of Man
- Pending investigation, any potential wind farm could generate 800MW or more.