bp and EnBW submitted their bid for offshore wind acreage in the ScotWind leasing round, which in addition to wind power aims to accelerate Scotland’s entire energy transition, including green hydrogen production.
The consortium has applied for a lease area off the east coast of Scotland that could support offshore wind projects with 2.9 gigawatts (GW) generating capacity.
A successful bid would bring multi-billion pound investments into Scottish offshore wind projects and supporting infrastructure, including ports, harbours and shipyards. bp also would use its unique integrated business model to invest in net zero industries, including green hydrogen production and significantly accelerating the expansion of Scotland’s EV charging network.
bp would also make Aberdeen its global offshore wind centre of excellence, supporting its growing portfolio of offshore wind interests across the world. This further supports Scotland becoming a global leader in offshore wind, developing leading sector capabilities that are exportable worldwide.
bp, EnBW and Forth Ports have already signed a Heads of Terms agreement with a financial commitment that will supplement Forth Ports’ £40 million investment in their planned Renewables Hub at the Port of Leith.
bp and EnBW would also support and invest in a new skills capability accelerator developed by energy consultancy Xodus which will provide on-the-job project experience and formal learning. The five-year, multi-million financial commitment includes creating entry-level energy transition roles, and the reskilling of hundreds of oil and gas workers, graduates and technicians with renewable sector capabilities. Together, these investments would support thousands of jobs in the Scottish energy sector and supply chain, and develop new energy transition jobs, skills and capabilities.
Engaging local supply chain
In readiness for a successful award, and to engage the local supply chain, bp and EnBW have launched a bespoke online portal for the Scottish engineering and supply sector to take part in the developments. Companies based in Scotland, with significant operations in Scotland, or that have plans to relocate their base or operations to Scotland are encouraged to register their interest for future opportunities.
