CBI comments on plans for new off-shore wind farms (UK)

The CBI today commented on the Crown Estate's announcement of the successful bidders to develop nine new off-shore wind farms in the UK.

Dr Neil Bentley, CBI Director of Business Environment, said: "This is as exciting step forward for the UK energy's industry comparable with the exploration of the North Sea for oil and gas in 1970s.

"Wind power will play an important role in helping the UK to cut carbon emissions and secure supply, but it needs to be part of a diverse and balanced energy mix that includes nuclear, gas, clean coal and other renewable sources.

"Although the development of the UK's off-shore wind market could potentially create huge opportunities, there are a number of supply chain challenges. These include the shortage of skilled engineers, ramping up turbine manufacturing capacity to meet demand, and getting the turbines connected to the grid."

The CBI is the UK's leading business organisation, speaking for some 240,000 businesses that together employ around a third of the private sector workforce.

Source:Confederation of British Industry

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