Sussex offshore wind farm plans approved

A large wind farm is set to be constructed off the Sussex coast following project approval being granted by energy secretary Ed Davey. The 700 megawatt Rampion wind farm will see 175 turbines installed around eight miles off the coast, between Worthing and Peacehaven.

The project will see enough green energy generated to provide power to around 450,000 homes. As well as providing large amounts of clean, renewable energy to the UK, it is expected to result in the creation of more than 750 jobs, delivering a huge boost to the local economy.

The Rampion wind farm is being developed by E.ON, which must now decide if it is continuing with the project. E.ON still has to make the final decision on investment, as well as apply for government subsidies before construction can begin. If the company does choose to take the scheme to the next stage, it is expected that building work will begin next year and be completed in 2018.

Mr Davey said that the project is good news for the local area. "This project is great news for Sussex, providing green jobs as well as driving business opportunities right across the country in a sector with a clear roadmap for long-term growth," he continued.

However, a number of businesses and local residents have raised concerns about the scheme. There are worries that the development and future operation of the wind farm will have an impact on the local environment, as well as affect the fishing industry. Some have also raised objections over the damage to the view caused by the 700 foot-high turbines, which will be visible from the South Downs National Park as well as other beauty areas.

Despite these misgivings, E.ON Renewables is happy the plans have been approved by the government. Chief operating officer Michael Lewis said the new wind farm will help with the future supply of energy to the country, as well as help the UK reach its renewable energy targets.

A number of environmental groups have also agreed that the project is a step in the right direction for Britain and the development of clean energy.