The UK Government has extended the deadline for deciding on the development consent order (DCO) for RWE's Rampion 2 offshore wind extension project. Initially set for today, February 6, the new deadline for a decision is now April 4, 2025, to allow additional time for the submission of further information.
The Planning Inspectorate concluded its six-month examination of the project in August 2024, which included a detailed review of RWE's application for the 90-turbine expansion in the North Sea, off the south coast of England. Following the examination, a three-month period for submitting recommendations to the Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, was completed. The Secretary of State had been expected to decide by early February.
If approved, the Rampion 2 project, which would increase the capacity of the existing Rampion 1 wind farm by adding turbines, is expected to begin construction in 2026/27 and be operational by 2030.
RWE's proposed onshore cable route has sparked controversy, particularly its path through the South Downs National Park. The route runs from a landfall site near Climping in Sussex to substations in Cowfold and Bolney, a plan that has faced opposition despite being modified following public consultation.
Natural England, a key stakeholder, raised concerns about the siting of turbines in the easternmost part of the proposed array area, emphasizing the need to preserve the natural beauty of the national park and Sussex Heritage Coast.
In response, RWE made changes to the original proposal, reducing the number of turbines from 116 to 90 following initial feedback in 2021.
