Danish clean energy company Orsted A/S has concluded a community consultation regarding the Mooir Vannin project, which will be the Isle of Man's first offshore wind farm.
The consultation, held from July to September, aimed to gather public feedback ahead of the company's planned submission of a formal planning application in the spring of 2025.
The proposed wind farm, with a capacity of approximately 1.4 GW, could feature up to 100 turbines. According to Orsted, the anticipated connection points will be located in Penwortham, Lancashire in the UK, and the Douglas area on the Isle of Man.
John Galloway, Orsted's development director for the Isle of Man, expressed optimism about the community's response. “The feedback has demonstrated a high level of interest and knowledge about the Mooir Vannin Offshore Wind Farm, which is very encouraging,” he said. Galloway also noted that the company will take questions and concerns into account as it refines its plans. “It is important to note the plans we presented for consultation were a maximum design scenario that shows the potential impact of the greatest size, number, and widest spread of turbines at the closest edge to the shore. Our proposals will now be reviewed, refined, and adapted ahead of submitting a planning application next year,” he added.
Orsted is working closely with Manx Utilities and various departments of the Isle of Man government to advance the project, which could become a significant step towards the island's renewable energy goals.
