Haskoning to deliver EIA for Gwynt Glas

Selected in June as a preferred bidder in Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5, Gwynt Glas is making strong progress with the development phase and has confirmed the appointment of consultants Haskoning to deliver the highly complex EIA and Habitats Regulations Assessment. 

Mark Hazelton, Gwynt Glas Project Director said: "Gwynt Glas is a transformative renewable energy project that will not only contribute to our energy security but also bring economic and social benefits to Wales, the South West region and the broader UK. The appointment of a lead EIA consultant is a major step forward in progressing the project and the work will help us carefully balance the environmental, economic and social factors of the project.”

Selected after a competitive bidding process, as lead EIA consultant Haskoning will consider all potentially significant impacts to the natural, heritage, human and built environments that could occur throughout the project’s life cycle. Haskoning will play a key role in helping secure the Development Consent Order (DCO) required for a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project in the UK and, as the project is located in Welsh waters, the required licencing from Natural Resources Wales. 

Delivering the EIA will draw on Haskoning’s extensive experience gained from other significant offshore wind projects such as Dogger Bank. So far, the company has supported clients in gaining consent for projects expected to deliver up to 18GW in wind energy, with a significant portfolio of projects in the pre-consent phase, including Morecambe and North Falls offshore windfarms.

The Crown Estate’s Leasing Round 5 opportunity is predicted to generate up to 5,300 jobs in the initial construction phase with further opportunities in the longer term. Under the leasing agreement Gwynt Glas has committed to introducing initiatives and opportunities that enhance training and employment and has already rolled out the ‘Destination Renewables’ education programme in partnership with Pembrokeshire College, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, DP Energy and EDF power solutions which has so far engaged more than 300 students.

Work on the EIA is underway and will be submitted as part of the overall application.