September 1, 2024: The UK has reached a historic 30GW milestone in wind power capacity, with Scotland’s offshore and onshore wind farms contributing 48% of this total. This 30GW capacity is enough to power over 26 million homes and reduce carbon emissions by more than 35 million tonnes annually.
Scotland’s onshore wind farms, spanning from the Borders to the Highlands and Islands, currently deliver 9.5GW of operational capacity, with a target to increase this to 20GW by 2030, as set by the Scottish Government.
Offshore wind farms along Scotland’s coastline have a current capacity of 5GW, with a goal to achieve 11GW by 2030. With numerous projects already underway, this capacity is expected to grow further.
The SSE Renewables’ Viking Wind Farm on the Shetland Islands has recently added 443MW of capacity, pushing the total beyond the 30GW threshold. Featuring 103 turbines, Viking Wind Farm will harness Shetland’s strong wind resource and deliver renewable energy to the grid via a 260km High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) subsea cable.
In the company’s press release, Morag Watson, Director of Onshore at Scottish Renewables, said, “As wind power continues to shape our future energy system, reaching 30GW of onshore and offshore wind capacity is a significant achievement for the UK.
Wind power is one of Scotland’s greatest environmental and economic success stories, from the first-ever wind turbine built in Aberdeenshire in 1887 to an industry which now delivers 27,000 jobs and more than £7 billion to our economy while helping combat climate change.
With 48% of the UK’s operational capacity here in Scotland it is quite fitting that it is the Viking wind farm, a Scottish project, that takes us past the 30GW milestone. It is clear to see that Scotland’s wind power industry continues to be at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy future and will continue to play a central role as we look to achieve net-zero.”
Reaching 30GW in wind power capacity is a landmark achievement for the UK, with the Viking Wind Farm playing a crucial role in this progress. This milestone not only enhances the UK's renewable energy infrastructure but also reinforces its dedication to sustainability and carbon reduction. As the country continues to expand its wind energy capabilities, it sets a strong example for global efforts in clean energy and environmental stewardship.