The UK government has signed an agreement on renewable energy which will increase offshore wind power fivefold.

The initiative is expected to increase the amount of off-shore wind to 50GW and deliver 18GW of electricity interconnector capacity, an increase from 8.4 GW today, by 2030.

The government said that the agreement between the UK and the North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC) ‘signals a new phase in UK-EU cooperation’ on grid infrastructure, energy security and wind farms.

The UK currently sends and receives electricity from France, Belgium and the Netherlands via cables. The agreement will strengthen this interconnection, while enabling the UK to work with NSEC members to develop renewables projects in the North Seas. Other NSEC members include Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Sweden, Norway and the European Commission.

Analysis by National Grid Electricity System Operator shows that a well-integrated grid linked to offshore wind farms can deliver savings to consumers of up to around £3 billion.

Commenting on the news Graham Stuart, minister of state for energy and climate, said: “I’m pleased to agree even greater energy cooperation with our North Seas neighbours, which will be vital in helping the UK meet it ambitious renewables target, including increasing offshore wind fivefold to 50GW by 2030.

“The development of renewables in the North Seas is critical for accelerating our clean transition and boosting energy security for the UK and our European neighbours.”

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