ScotWind Leasing: April update

Following incorporation of feedback from developers and interested parties, we have now completed the preparation of our ScotWind leasing documentation, and are working with The Scottish Government to finalise and formally launch Scotland’s first round of offshore wind leasing for a decade.

ScotWind documentation includes:

The launch pack (Offer Document; Registration & Application Form; Guidance Notes for Registration & Application Form; and Option Agreement and Lease) which will provide applicants with the full guidance needed to make an application to ScotWind Leasing; and
An engagement document which provides further detail on the proposed Supply Chain Development Statement (SCDS). This document explains how the process has been developed in a way which facilitates the delivery of offshore wind projects in Scotland by utilising a capable and sustainable supply chain. The document asks targeted questions around the detail of the SCDS which we hope interested parties will respond to in order to ensure final arrangements are clear and robust.

The SCDS Engagement Document will be published when ScotWind Leasing is launched. We will ensure that timelines for feeding back on the document are sufficient to allow interested parties adequate time to respond and for Crown Estate Scotland to incorporate this information into the final SCDS arrangements.

As previously indicated, we intend to publish the final SCDS arrangements and the closing date for applications when we have clarity on the final adoption of the Sectoral Marine Plan for Offshore Wind Energy. We will also consider the potential impact of COVID-19 when setting the closing date for applications.

John Robertson, Head of Energy and Infrastructure, said: “A great deal of hard work has been undertaken by the team to ensure that we progress with the best possible pathway for the expansion of the offshore wind sector in Scotland, and that we have reached the point we can finalise this with Scottish Government. We are especially grateful for all the feedback and input we have had from stakeholders, which has been extremely helpful in allowing us to make sure the leasing framework is fit for purpose.

“We all want to see success in the Scottish offshore wind sector, which will allow us to take big strides towards our Net Zero targets whilst also allowing businesses and communities across Scotland to benefit from the economic and social opportunities this success can bring.”

Crown Estate Scotland has also finalised the development of its online portal through which applications will be made. Further details of how to use this portal will be published when ScotWind Leasing launches.