Guernsey’s approach, which differs from Jersey’s, has been structured into four clear phases. Phase one explored the viability and opportunity for offshore wind in Guernsey’s territorial seas and phase two examined the potential value of that opportunity, focusing on the economic value of Guernsey’s seabed as a national asset.
With those two stages completed, the States’ Offshore Wind Delivery Board can now move to phase three, which will assess potential export markets for Guernsey’s offshore wind energy, before starting phase four will then consider how a Guernsey wind farm could access those markets, including grid connections and commercial arrangements.
‘In phase three we’ll be assessing one or more export options in the UK and France, and working on grid access,’ said Deputy Chris Blin, who chairs that board.
‘Last April the States Assembly unanimously approved the policy letter to progress to phases three and four, so that was a positive step.’
By contrast, a report published by Jersey’s Environment Minister, Deputy Steve Luce, has recommended that Jersey holds off on making further decisions until there has been sufficient engagement with the UK and France to clarify market conditions and export access.
‘Jersey and Guernsey have often had different approaches,’ said Deputy Blin.
‘Our policy letters are very different – theirs is an appraisal, while ours sets out a structured pathway towards delivery.
‘If you look at their report, it recommends they wait and see.
‘They haven’t stopped, they’ve just paused – and we’re all facing similar challenges.
‘The difference is that we’re systematically working through them.’
Deputy Blin said that the Offshore Wind Delivery Board continued to liaise and communicate with Alderney and Jersey as well as maintaining strong links with the UK government.
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