The global floating offshore wind project pipeline has increased by 9% over the past year, reaching a total of 266 GW, according to a report from RenewableUK. This marks an expansion from 244 GW a year ago, with an additional 22 GW added in the last 12 months.
The number of floating offshore wind projects has also risen from 285 to 316 during this period. The pipeline encompasses projects at various stages, including those that are fully operational, under construction, approved, in the planning system, or in early development.
Currently, 245 MW of floating wind capacity is operational across 15 projects in seven countries. Norway leads the way with 94 MW across three projects, followed by the UK with 78 MW from two projects, China with 40 MW across five projects, Portugal with a 25 MW project, and Japan with 5 MW from two projects.
Globally, 102 MW of floating wind capacity is under construction (four projects), while 7.3 GW is either consented or in the pre-construction phase (22 projects). Additionally, 21.6 GW is in the planning system (15 projects), and 184 GW is in early development or applying for a lease.
Italy has the largest floating offshore wind pipeline, representing 16% of the global total at 41.3 GW; however, most of these projects are in the early stages of development. The USA follows with 13% (35.3 GW), and the UK ranks third with 12% (33.1 GW). Spain and Sweden account for 9% (24.7 GW) and 7% (18.2 GW), respectively.
Approximately 62% (165 GW) of announced floating wind capacity is being developed in European waters, with 12% (33.1 GW) of the global portfolio located in UK waters. Notably, three-quarters of the UK's floating wind projects (24.8 GW) are situated in Scottish waters.
RenewableUK's Chief Executive, Dan McGrail, who also serves as Co-Chair of the Floating Offshore Wind Taskforce, emphasized the importance of continued progress: “It's great to see the UK maintaining its position as a world leader in floating wind, but in an increasingly competitive global market, the industry will now have to work even harder with the Government to ensure that we ramp up the amount of floating capacity we secure in each annual auction from now on to maintain our advantage.”
He highlighted the potential for economic growth and the role of floating offshore wind technology in the UK's clean power system. A major report from the Floating Offshore Wind Taskforce, to be released tomorrow, will outline the significant industrial opportunities presented by this innovative technology.
