A new goal has been announced by the Scottish Government to increase the capacity of installed offshore wind to 11GW by 2030.
Scotland currently has 1GW of offshore wind capacity operational, and a total of 5.6GW of offshore wind capacity approved.
Following consultation with industry, coastal communities, environmental organisations and stakeholders, it was agreed the previous target of 8GW should be increased to 11GW.
A plan for suitable areas for commercial offshore wind projects has been adopted by the Scottish Government. This plan will inform the first seabed leasing process led by the property manager Crown Estate Scotland.
Scotland’s Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse commented: ''This is a pivotal moment for the development of our offshore wind sector. Our seas are host to some of the best offshore wind resources in the world and our ambition to capitalise on our offshore wind generation capacity is part of the bold action we are taking to support economic recovery and become a net-zero society.''