A DECISION by renewables energy giant Ørsted not to proceed with a new windfarm off the Yorkshire will prompt a few sighs of relief at the RSPB - not least at its seabirds reserve in Bempton.
Although the society is generally supportive of wind energy, it changes tack if turbines threaten to comprise its reserves, especially those that are huge generators of visitor revenue.
The RSPB had been particularly worried that the 180 turbines at the proposed Hornsea 4 development would deter birds from returning to their cliffside breeding sites.
The Bempton Big Six are: Fulmar, Gannet, Guillemot, Kittiwake, Puffin and Razorbill.
Ørsted announced earlier today that it would not be proceeding with Hornsea 4, attributing the decision to ever-increasing supply chain costs, high interest rates and construction risks.
Said its chief executive Rasmus Errboe: "We remain fully committed to being an important partner to the UK government to help them achieve their ambitious target for offshore wind build-out and appreciate the work they’ve done to deliver a clear framework to support offshore wind.
"However, our capital allocation is based on a strict and value-focused approach, and after careful consideration, we’ve decided to discontinue the development of the Hornsea 4 project in its current form."
He continued: "We have been maturing the project over the past nine months and have been working relentlessly with stakeholders and suppliers to manage the different project risks for a project of this scale.
"Throughout the development phase, we have been diligent in our approach to capital commitment to our suppliers, and our committed capital is well below our threshold.
"The adverse macroeconomic developments, continued supply chain challenges and increased execution, market and operational risks have eroded the value creation."
It was back in July 2023 that the then Environment Secretary, Grant Shapps, approved Hornsea 4.
In recognition that there would probably be an adverse impact on seabirds, the energy company offered to build a nesting platform for Kittiwakes off Whitby.
Ørsted will take a huge financial hit - upwards of £500-million according to some estimates - as a result of today's decision.
The pull-out will also hit hopes of more jobs being created in Grimsby which is service hub for maintenance at its turbines within the Hornsea 1 and 2 windfarms which are already operational and Hornsea 3 which is under construction.
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| Fulmars - its breeding numbers are on a downward trend at RSPB Bempton |
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