Offshore wind identified as key "growth enabler" for Jersey economy

Tuesday 17 October 2023

An offshore wind farm off Jersey’s south-west coast has the potential to create export revenue and be a “growth enabler” for the economy, a new study has found.

A document released by the Government today lists harnessing renewable energy as a key activity that will help increase productivity in the Jersey economy.

The ‘Delivery Framework for Sustainable Economic Development 2023 – 2026’ has been published to provide a ‘roadmap’ for islanders and businesses to see how the Government intends to stimulate economic growth after two decades of stagnation.

Pictured: Environment Minister Jonathan Renouf has previously said that an offshore wind farm could be up and running within six to eight years.

Regarding renewable energy, it says: “Beyond environmental sustainability and security, generating energy has the potential for creating export revenue. 

“Renewable energy is an important part of achieving Jersey’s net zero commitment, but it also presents an opportunity for economic growth. 

“Of the potential renewable energy sources, wind is the most commercially viable for Jersey in the short to medium term. 

“Government is promoting the development of up to 1GW of installed capacity in the southwest of Jersey’s waters. Alongside specialist job opportunities, this would create opportunities for exporting energy or new, energy intensive industries such as vertical growing and specialist data hubs."

The proposed size of 1GW – or 1,000MW – would generate around six times Jersey’s current electricity needs, creating export opportunities.

“Other renewable energy sources such as tidal could also play a significant economic role in the future and should be re-evaluated periodically to assess their technology maturity and viability," the report added.

In terms of timescale, the framework adds that Jersey’s approach to delivering the farm will be finalised by the end of 2024; an option for a lease over the seabed with a suitable commercial development consortium will be completed by 2026, along with an re-evaluation of other energy sources. 

Environment Minister Jonathan Renouf has previously said that an offshore wind farm could be up and running within six to eight years.

Pictured: Deputy Renouf has previously expressed his support for a wind farm in Jersey's territorial waters.

Other “growth enablers” which the Government intends to promote include stimulating the island’s “entrepreneurial spirit”, improving links with neighbouring jurisdictions, and developing research and development opportunities.

The Government's next steps in developing an offshore wind farm will be announced by Deputy Renouf this afternoon.