The government gave the go-ahead to Moray Offshore Renewables, a joint venture (JV) between Repsol and EDP Renovaveis, and to Beatrice offshore wind farm, a JV between SSE Renewables and SeaEnergy Renewables.
In total, the plans will deliver up to 326 wind turbines, and the consent has been granted subject to strict conditions on the impact of the development, including in relation to birds and other environmental considerations.
The government claims that the developments, off the coast of Caithness, together will be the world’s third largest offshore wind farm.
Scotland Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said the country has the potential to lead the development of a new renewables industry as offshore wind moves into deeper waters.
"Offshore renewables represent a huge opportunity for Scotland; an opportunity to build up new industries and to deliver on our ambitious renewable energy and carbon reduction targets," Ewing said.
"The Scottish Government is committed to the successful and sustainable development of an offshore wind sector, which could lead to a potential inward investment of £30 billion and support up to 28,000 direct jobs and a further 20,000 indirect jobs, generating up to £7.1 billion for the Scottish economy."
Image: Scottish government permits for Moray offshore wind farms. Photo: Courtesy of xedos4/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
