Scotland’s leading fishing organisation has called for an immediate pause on offshore wind farm approvals, warning that current government plans pose a serious threat to marine ecosystems, coastal communities and the fishing sector.
In formal responses to consultations on the Scottish Government’s Offshore Wind Policy Statement and draft Sectoral Marine Plan, the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) said the target of installing up to 40 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2040 is “far too high” and risks irreversible environmental and economic impacts.
“This isn’t a plan – it’s a stampede,” said SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald. “The government is charging ahead without the faintest idea how to protect the people and places that will be trampled in the rush.”
The federation said current marine spatial planning processes are being “reverse engineered” to fit outcomes from the ScotWind leasing process and criticised the Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas (INTOG) seabed leasing round as “sketchy” and overly rushed.
The group argued that mitigation measures are lacking, and said the cumulative effects of renewables expansion, marine regulation, and demands placed on the fishing industry have brought it close to “breaking point.”
“Until they can prove our industry and our seas will be safeguarded, the only responsible choice is to slam on the brakes,” Macdonald said.
The SFF also raised concerns that the updated Offshore Wind Policy Statement places significant emphasis on economic development while failing to adequately acknowledge the climate crisis or the sustainability of existing industries.
“Fishing is one of Scotland’s original green industries,” Macdonald added. “Renewable food cannot be the price to be paid for renewable energy.”
The Scottish Government has committed to significantly expanding offshore wind as part of its climate and energy strategy, aiming to position the country as a leader in the green energy transition. Officials have said stakeholder input, including that of the fishing industry, will be considered in final policy decisions.
