A new action plan launched by the Welsh Government aims to unlock the full potential of offshore wind and deliver long-term economic benefits for Wales.
The plan, revealed during Wind Week, sets out steps to drive investment, create jobs and position Wales as a leader in renewable energy.
Wales already has a strong track record in offshore wind, hosting the UK’s first fixed offshore wind developments.
Today, it boasts a pipeline of over 15 GW of projects in Welsh, English and Irish waters. The sector offers a £4.8 billion opportunity for Welsh businesses and more than 3,000 high-quality jobs.
The plan is the product of a task and finish group established earlier this year, bringing together voices from developers, ports, manufacturing and skills.
Key recommendations include establishing a new stakeholder forum by autumn 2025, streamlining planning processes and boosting local supply chain and skills development.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “Last week, we welcomed the announcement that offshore wind in the Celtic Sea was moving from planning into development and delivery… This truly is a once in a generation opportunity for our ports and will be a catalyst for economic regeneration in our coastal communities.”
The UK Government recently committed up to £80 million to support infrastructure at Port Talbot, a key site for offshore wind supply chains.
Ajai Ahluwalia, Head of Supply Chain at RenewableUK, said: “Offshore wind is one of the UK’s greatest industrial opportunities — with the potential to transform Wales’ heartland sectors, like steel and advanced manufacturing… To unlock that value, we must now move swiftly from planning to implementation — and industry stands ready to work with government to make it happen.”
The plan also calls for greater coordination between education and industry to develop the workforce needed for Wales’ offshore wind future.
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