Ocean Winds has been selected to develop the third floating offshore wind site in the Celtic Sea, the Crown Estate said, completing the Round 5 leasing portfolio alongside projects from Equinor and Gwynt Glas.
The company, a joint venture between EDPR and Engie, was chosen through a direct award following market engagement and will now work toward a lease agreement expected in spring 2026. Ocean Winds has previously delivered the WindFloat Atlantic project and developed major UK fixed-bottom wind schemes including Moray East and Moray West.
Dan Labbad, chief executive of the Crown Estate, said: “I’m incredibly proud that we have delivered on the commitment we made to secure a developer for the third site in the Celtic Sea, and we’re delighted that Ocean Winds will join other world-leading companies to invest in the UK and help establish this pioneering new technology for the long-term benefit of the country.”
Craig Windram, chief executive of Ocean Winds, added: “We are proud to be selected for the development rights for this strategic site. With over a decade of experience pioneering floating wind technology, and a proven ability to deliver fixed bottom projects at pace, we are confident in our capabilities to deliver this commercial scale floating project.”
The Crown Estate said all Round 5 developers are required to meet commitments on apprenticeships and local employment, with research estimating more than 5,000 jobs and a £1.4 billion economic boost from the round.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Securing a third floating offshore wind site in the Celtic Sea not only strengthens the UK’s position as a global leader in this emerging technology, but also further unlocks the region’s vast potential to deliver our clean power mission and bring down energy bills for good.”
