The UK government gave an offshore wind project the go ahead last week, a move that is expected to support up to 900 green jobs in Yorkshire and Humberside and millions of pounds’ worth of investment to the UK’s economy.
Dogger Bank Creyke Beck A and B wind project will include up to 400 wind turbines. For that’s around 130km off the coast of the East Riding of Yorkshire. With a maximum capacity of 2400MW it will generate enough electricity to power almost 2 million homes once built. The DECC labelled Yorkshire an “energy hub”.
Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey said:
Clearly this is another great boost for Yorkshire and Humberside. This development has the potential to support hundreds of green jobs and power up to 2 million homes.
Making the most of Britain’s home grown energy is creating jobs and businesses in the UK. All for getting the best deal for consumers and reducing our reliance on foreign imports. Wind power is vital to this plan, with £14.5 billion invested since 2010 into an industry which supports 35,400 jobs.”
There could be up to 2,000 wind turbines in the UK by 2050. For that’s according to plans put forward in the recent Energy Bill. Compare that to the current level of just over 1,000 and the potential impact on the economy has begun to sink in.
6,000 jobs per landfill
After it all, creating 6,000 jobs in the UK means that the UK would be getting around 4,000 – 5,000 new jobs for each new wind farm built. All which is great news for both the economy and the environment.
While job creation remains the most important issue for a clean energy transition. For there’s many other benefits are also possible. As well as the positive economic impact and emissions reduction, wind farms can help with flood mitigation, strengthen coastal defenses and improve wildlife habitat.
But this is only the first step towards a climate-friendly, fossil fuel-free energy mix. The UK must lead the way with the development of more wind, solar and other forms of renewable energy.
Source: Intelligent Building Today
23 Feb 15 | Author Leighann Morris
