Pier to support community engagement for Stromar offshore project
Power Engineering International
Posted on: 6 March 2024
Stromar Floating Offshore Wind project has selected Pier to deliver a programme of community engagement in the north-east of Scotland.
Specialist renewable energy consultancy Pier has been appointed by the Stromar Floating Offshore Wind project to deliver a programme of communications and community engagement activities in the north-east of Scotland.
Stromar is a joint venture comprising Ørsted, BlueFloat Energy and Renantis.
When completed, the Stromar project is expected to produce up to 1GW of green electricity, enough to power the equivalent needs of around one million homes annually.
Located approximately 50km offshore near Caithness, Stromar could also contribute significantly to Scotland and the UK's Net Zero targets while creating local jobs and boosting the local supply chain.
Have you read?
EDF Renewables opens West Benhar wind farm
BayWa r.e. completes unique PV, wind and battery storage system in Germany
Stephanie Clark, Pier’s head of renewables, said: “Securing the Stromar project is a significant achievement for Pier. Floating offshore wind represents a huge advancement in renewables, and we're thrilled to lead the way by supporting major developments across this emerging sector.
“Our collaboration with global leaders driving innovation in floating offshore wind technology is incredibly exciting. We have a great team with a proven track record in community engagement across the UK.”
Nicholas Ritchie, Stromar project director, said: “Fostering strong community relationships is paramount for our Stromar team and we’re really pleased to be working with Pier to ensure that local voices are heard and valued throughout the development phase. Scotland has a fantastic opportunity to lead the world in floating offshore wind and reap the benefits of lasting job creation and economic growth through its supply chain.”
As stated on the Stromar website, the project is focused on community involvement, as well as ownership, a pioneering concept for offshore wind development. The team is working in partnership with community ownership experts Energy4All to investigate the options for Scottish communities to benefit from offshore wind.
The partners aim to submit the planning application for the Stromar project in Autumn 2025.
