Crown Estate Scotland has confirmed the timeline for the launch of the ScotWind leasing round for offshore wind projects.
Crown Estate Scotland has confirmed that the launch of ScotWind will take place after the publication of Marine Scotland’s draft Sectoral Marine Plan (SMP) as announced in September.
Applicants will be able to complete registration shortly after launch, with the closing date set for at least one month after the Adopted SMP is available.
Crown Estate Scotland said it will make sure that the final timeline allows sufficient time for applications to be prepared in light of the degree of material change following SMP consultation and finalization.
Additionally, ScotWind Leasing timescales must account for the work that is ongoing to explore how new leasing can support the sustainability of offshore wind development in Scotland. A final position on this will be in place before the launch.
Crown Estate Scotland plans to provide a further update on the progress of this ongoing work and on ScotWind Leasing timings early in 2020.
Two engagement events will be held in Edinburgh and London at least two weeks after the launch to provide an opportunity for interested parties to hear about key elements of the leasing application process from those involved in designing them.