The Scottish government has granted Section 36 consent and marine licenses for the 100 MW Salamander wind farm, advancing the development of floating offshore wind energy. Jointly developed by Ørsted, Simply Blue Group, and Subsea7, the project is located 35 kilometers off the coast of Peterhead in northeast Scotland.

Scotstown Beach between Lunderton and Kirkton, where Salamander will make landfall. Note that none of the proposed infrastructure on the beach will be visible once completed.

The Salamander wind farm will utilize floating offshore wind technology to produce zero-carbon electricity, supported by a 100 MW onshore battery system. This initiative aligns with Scotland’s goal of achieving 11 GW of installed offshore wind capacity and the UK’s target of 5 GW of operational floating wind by 2030. The project strengthens local supply chains, fostering economic growth in the region.

Approval from the Marine Directorate Licensing and Operations, with input from stakeholders like NatureScot, ensures compliance with environmental and operational standards. Following onshore planning permission granted in March 2025, this offshore consent keeps the project on track for deployment before the end of 2030. The development team is now pursuing an option agreement with Crown Estate Scotland and aims to secure a Contract for Difference to support financial viability.

“Coming hot on the heels of the onshore consent, this is yet another major achievement by the project team,” said Project Director Hugh Yendole. “While we worked proactively with MD-LOT to achieve offshore consent – including compensation plans – within the 12-month target window, the award within 15 months reflects our team’s expertise, passion, commitment, and seamless teamwork.”

The Salamander wind farm, part of Crown Estate Scotland’s INTOG leasing round since May 2023, focuses on advancing floating wind technology and supply chain development. By integrating battery storage, the project addresses grid balancing challenges and supports future commercial-scale floating wind projects. The initiative also prepares local industries for larger opportunities in Scotland’s renewable energy sector.

This approval marks a significant step for the Salamander wind farm, enhancing Scotland’s position in the global floating offshore wind industry while contributing to sustainable energy goals.