A chilly day out in a snow covered Aberdeen for BBC Radio 4
Kirstine Wood, Head of Communications and Public Affairs
Yesterday, Allan MacAskill, our Co-Chief Technical Officer was interviewed for BBC Radio 4, talking about the exciting potential of floating wind technology, and its significant impact on Scotland’s energy future and our local supply chain. Under the backdrop of Nigg lighthouse at Aberdeen Harbour, the discussion considered some of the benefits around floating wind, the perceived challenges as well as the significant strides Flotation Energy is making with its pioneering floating wind project, Green Volt.
Floating windfarms, unlike traditional fixed-bottom turbines, are designed to operate in deeper waters, where wind resources are often stronger and more consistent. This innovation presents a major opportunity for Scotland, a country already at the forefront of renewable energy development.
The interview was sparked by Flotation Energy’s role in Green Volt, a joint venture with co-developer Vårgrønn. Having now received all its planning approvals, it remains on track to be the first commercial-scale floating offshore windfarm in Europe, as well as becoming one of the world’s largest. Not only is that exciting, it’s also no accident.
Flotation Energy’s founders, Allan MacAskill and Nicol Stephen were behind the world’s first and largest grid-connected floating offshore windfarm, Kincardine, off the Aberdeenshire coast. Not only is this windfarm fully operational, but it has also played a significant part in proving floating technology and deployment, enabling the industry to scale-up to commercial-size developments.
As a test and demonstration (T&D) site, Kincardine continues to be utilised to advance engineering methodology into practice and spearhead new technologies. For example, the first major component replacement on a floating structure (globally), without the use of a jack-up, was carried out at Kincardine only last month.
T&D projects are beneficial not only to the floating wind industry, but to the traditional energy supply chain, who require a just transition from oil and gas into renewables – to secure jobs, trades and skills. The UK supply chain stands to benefit immensely from the floating wind revolution: from manufacturing turbines and mooring systems; to providing maintenance and operational services, Scotland’s skilled workforce and established industrial base can play a crucial role in the development of floating wind projects.
”“Scotland's geographical advantages make it uniquely positioned to become a global leader in floating wind. With its vast offshore waters and strong wind resources, the country could see an influx of investments, job creation, and technological advancements. Most importantly, it’s a key driver in Scotland’s efforts to meet its ambitious net-zero goals."
Kirstine WoodHead of Communications and Public Affairs
Maggie McGinlay who is Chief Executive of the Energy Transition Zone and Hugh Riddell, Regional Partnership Manager at Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult were also part of the interview. Together the trio highlighted that Aberdeen already possesses the offshore capacity, skills and experience to help drive forward Scotland’s global floating wind ambitions. The North-east of Scotland is ideally positioned to closely collaborate with neighbouring countries to build a new economy which exports knowledge, skills and technology. Floating offshore wind offers enormous potential for investment, creating a multi-billion-pound industry that will service tens of thousands of jobs.
As floating wind technology advances and more projects are given the green light, the UK’s expertise and infrastructure will be critical to delivering scalable, sustainable energy solutions, offering both environmental and economic rewards for generations to come.
