Offshore Wind Worldwide Regulatory Framework in Selected Countries 5th Edition 2024 - Flipbook - Page 345
Offshore Wind Worldwide 2024
345
CfD Key Dates
3. PUBLIC LAW AND
REGULATORY PERMITS
3.1 Planning
If a proposed offshore plant has a capacity
of more than 100 MW, it will be classed as a
nationally significant infrastructure project
(“NSIP”) under Planning Act 2008 and will
need a development consent order (“DCO”)
from the Secretary of State for The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
If the proposed plant has a capacity of between 1 and 100 MW, it will need a section 36
consent under the Electricity Act 1989 from
the MMO.
The Wales Act 2017 devolved approval for
offshore wind projects (of any size) to the
Welsh Assembly. The Welsh consenting process for offshore wind farms is undergoing
significant changes aimed at streamlining
and simplifying how infrastructure projects
are approved. Wales is moving toward
creating a unified consenting process, often
referred to as a "one-stop-shop" approach.
This new system would allow developers
to submit a single application that covers
all necessary consents and authorisations,
simplifying the process significantly.
3.2 Generation
A generation licence will be needed by any
new offshore wind project under section
6(1)(a) of the Electricity Act 1989 and is
granted by Ofgem. Applications should be
made to Ofgem and the licence will include
standard conditions and occasionally special conditions.
3.3 Environmental
Where there may be a significant environmental impact, an environmental impact
assessment (“EIA”) may be required and
