Worlds largest wind farm given go ahead

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Thousands of jobs in construction are set to be created after a project to build the world’s largest wind farm was given the go-ahead.

Hornsea One will be built off the coast of Grimsby, in Lincolnshire, with estimates suggesting it could be operational by 2020.

Developers Dong Energy have made the final investment decision on the project, meaning construction work can get under way.

It will have the capacity to generate 1.2 gigawatts of energy – enough to power one million homes.

The wind farm, said to be the largest in the world by a considerable margin, will cover more than 400 square kilometres and use seven turbines, each measuring 190 metres tall.

Some 2,000 jobs will be created during the project’s construction phase and another 300 positions when it is up and running.

In addition, a £25 million contract has been awarded for an onshore substation, which will be built by Balfour Beatty.

Support will also come from a blade factory in Hull, construction of which is due to be completed by the end of the year.

Welcoming the news, Energy Secretary Amber Rudd said the scheme would provide a boost to infrastructure, jobs and energy supply.

“Dong Energy’s investment shows that we are open for business and is a vote of confidence in the UK and in our plan to tackle the legacy of under-investment and build an energy infrastructure fit for the 21st century,” she said.

“This project means secure, clean energy for the country, jobs and financial security for working people and their families, and more skills and growth boosting the Northern Powerhouse.”

According to CITB’s latest Construction Skills Network report, those working in construction in theYorkshire & Humber region are likely to see a 2.4% increase in growth, which will see 3,230 jobs created every year for the next five years.