In the second quarter of 2017, offshore wind generation in the United Kingdom increased by 22 percent or 0.7TWh to 4TWh in comparison to the same period in 2016.
At the end of 2017 Q2, the UK’s renewable electricity capacity totalled 38GW, an increase of 13% (4.4GW), with offshore wind representing 15% of all renewable capacity.
In 2017 Q2, offshore wind capacity increased by 216MW, with a further 138MW installed at Dudgeon where 238MW of the final 402MW is currently installed, and the first 78MW out of 573MW installed at Race Bank.
Offshore wind’s load factor increased by 3.5 percentage, from 29.2 percent in 2016 Q2 to 32.8 percent in 2017.
When compared to the first quarter of the year, offshore wind’s load factor was 10.9 percent lower, with wind speeds 0.6 knots higher at 8.3 knots.
Scotland generated approximately 24% of total UK renewable electricity in 2016.
Scottish Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy Paul Wheelhouse said: “Today’s statistics show that Scotland is on track for a record year of renewable electricity generation, and that our renewable energy sector is stronger than ever. This reflects our commitment to clean, green energy building, and we will continue to support the renewable energy sector in Scotland.”