​Two major floating offshore wind projects have been confirmed for development in the Celtic Sea, marking a significant step forward for the UK's renewable energy ambitions.

Equinor and Gwynt Glas - a partnership formed by EDF Renewables UK and ESB - have been awarded leases by The Crown Estate as part of its latest leasing round. The projects will be located off the coasts of southern Wales and south-west England, areas identified as having strong potential for floating wind development due to deep waters and favourable wind conditions.

Floating wind technology enables turbines to be deployed in deeper waters where traditional fixed-bottom structures are not viable. This advancement opens up new areas for clean energy generation and is expected to play a key role in meeting the UK's long-term net zero targets.

The Celtic Sea has been highlighted as a key growth area for floating offshore wind, with significant economic and employment benefits projected for the region. These initial commercial-scale schemes are projected to generate as much as £32 billion in economic impact over the next ten years. Welsh firms could benefit from around £4.8 billion of that total, with over 3,000 jobs anticipated through expanded investment in infrastructure, manufacturing, and related services.

Ports located in south Wales and England's south-west are likely to play a central role in the construction and assembly of floating platforms and turbines, with long-term opportunities in maintenance and supply chain development. Local training and education providers are also expected to support workforce development as the sector expands.

These new projects form part of the UK's broader strategy to expand offshore wind capacity and reinforce energy security, with floating wind expected to contribute significantly to the country's clean electricity generation in the years ahead. Further leasing rounds are anticipated.