Scotland has approved what could become one of the world’s largest offshore wind farms, giving the green light to the long-anticipated Berwick Bank Wind Farm, a major leap in the UK’s push for net zero and energy independence.
The sprawling offshore site, to be developed by SSE Renewables, will sit approximately 38km off the Scottish Borders coast near St Abbs, with an expected generation capacity of 4.1 gigawatts (GW) — enough, using current technology, to power every household in Scotland more than twice over.
A green light—but with environmental strings attached
While the approval marks a significant boost for Scotland’s renewable energy sector, it comes with strict environmental caveats.
The development area has been identified as ecologically sensitive, especially for seabird populations. As part of the approval, Scottish Ministers have made it mandatory for SSE Renewables to produce a comprehensive seabird compensation plan. The plan must address how adverse impacts on key species will be offset — and it must be approved before construction can begin.
“Ministers have given the Berwick Bank wind farm application extremely careful consideration,” said Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes.
“This is a major step forward in our efforts to tackle the climate crisis, support national energy security, and grow our green economy.”
The decision comes just months after the Scottish Government reaffirmed its commitment to a just transition away from fossil fuels, while investing heavily in green infrastructure, supply chains, and workforce reskilling.
Scotland’s biggest renewable leap yet
At full capacity, Berwick Bank would represent one of the largest single offshore wind installations in the world — a project that dwarfs many of its predecessors, both in size and potential impact.
This approval follows a wave of activity in Scotland’s renewables sector:
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The ScotWind leasing round, which unlocked seabed rights for 25GW of offshore wind.
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The INTOG leasing program, designed to decarbonize oil and gas infrastructure while spurring innovation.
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Growing momentum for floating wind and green hydrogen projects, especially off the northeast coast.
SSE Renewables is expected to begin next-phase planning immediately, with grid connection, supply chain contracts, and marine logistics now entering center stage.
Balancing power and protection
Despite the enthusiastic response from energy stakeholders, conservation groups have sounded cautious support, stressing the importance of enforcing biodiversity protections.
The Berwick Bank site overlaps with marine zones vital to kittiwakes, puffins, and guillemots — seabirds already under pressure due to climate change, overfishing, and habitat loss.
A senior adviser with RSPB Scotland called the seabird plan requirement “vital,” adding:
“We’re not opposed to offshore wind, but we cannot afford to ignore the ecological cost. If done right, Berwick Bank can be a model for responsible large-scale green energy.”
Scottish Ministers echoed the need for balance.
“We will continue to work closely with the developer and key stakeholders – including those working in fishing and conservation – to minimise impact on the marine environment and other users,” Forbes said.
Economic impact and job potential
Beyond environmental concerns, the wind farm is expected to deliver significant economic dividends, especially for Scotland’s east coast.
SSE has indicated that the project could:
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Support up to 6,000 direct and indirect jobs
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Generate over £8 billion in economic value
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Catalyze long-term investment in ports, fabrication yards, and training centers in areas like Leith, Dundee, and Eyemouth
The project could also solidify Scotland’s position as a global leader in offshore wind, particularly as the country prepares to co-host major international green energy summits in 2026.
Key Details at a Glance
| Project | Berwick Bank Offshore Wind Farm |
|---|---|
| Developer | SSE Renewables |
| Location | ~38km off the coast at St Abbs, Scottish Borders |
| Capacity | 4.1GW |
| Homes Powered | All Scottish households, twice over |
| Status | Approved (pending seabird compensation plan) |
| Environmental Condition | Must mitigate seabird impact |
| Economic Benefit | ~6,000 jobs, £8B+ economic value |
With approval granted, SSE Renewables will now focus on finalising environmental requirements, engaging with local communities, and laying groundwork for construction — which could begin as early as late 2026, subject to remaining marine licenses and procurement stages.
The Berwick Bank decision is also seen as a bellwether for future large-scale offshore wind applications, especially in areas with ecological sensitivity.
It may also influence how UK ministers approach future marine permitting frameworks, especially as pressure mounts to simplify but not sideline environmental assessments in the name of net zero.
