Plans have today (Oct 12) been unveiled for the West of Orkney Windfarm that aims to utilise Orkney’s offshore wind to power the production of green hydrogen on an industrial scale.
A consortium formed of Macquarie’s Green Investment Group, TotalEnergies and Renewable Infrastructure Development Group (RIDG) is behind the development – and it has already submitted a proposal to the Crown Estate Scotland’s offshore wind leasing round.
Dubbed Offshore Wind Power Limited (OWPL), the consortium recognises both the demand for green hydrogen, and the abundant natural resources that Orkney has to offer for hydrogen production.
If successful, the consortium wants such development to be located on the island of Flotta. To do this, OWPL is joining forces with Flotta Terminal’s owners Repsol, Sinopec, and Uniper, all of which are already very active within the hydrogen sector.
Commenting on the proposed site, Edward Northam, Head of Green Investment Group Europe, said, “We believe that green hydrogen could provide a critical alternative route to market for some of Scotland’s largest offshore wind projects and play a significant role in creating wider economic benefits as the North Sea goes through its energy transition. We look forward to working with the Flotta partners to continue to develop this proposal.”
James Stockan, Leader of Orkney Islands Council, added, “Flotta is an ideal location for green hydrogen production – it is surrounded by the best wind resource in Europe, it lies close to major shipping routes within the vast natural harbour of Scapa Flow. The time is right to maximise the incredible natural assets and geography of the Flow and Orkney to ensure a long-term sustainable, climate-friendly future for our communities.
“We are very much open for business and ready to work with potential investors and operators to develop the significant strategic and international opportunities we know that our islands offer. The potential here is immense and we, as a Council, will do everything we can to support and enable this bright new opportunity.”
