Scottish Gov’t Grants Go-Ahead for 100 MW Salamander Floating Wind Farm

July 24, 2025, by Adnan Memija

The Salamander floating offshore wind farm has secured the offshore consent award from the Scottish government, granting approval to build and operate the project.

The 100 MW floating wind farm, developed jointly by Simply Blue Group, Ørsted, and Subsea7, has been awarded Section 36 consent and associated Marine Licences.

Combined with the recent award of onshore Planning Permission in Principle for the project’s onshore works in March 2025, passing this milestone ensures that the project remains firmly on track for deployment before the end of 2030, according to Salamander.

The recommendation from the Marine Directorate Licensing and Operations (MD-LOT) team, with input from key stakeholders such as NatureScot, now approved by Scottish Ministers, is said to bolster the Scottish supply chain.

It will be crucial in helping derisk future floating offshore wind developments under the ScotWind leasing round, according to the project company.

“Coming hot on the heels of the onshore consent, this is yet another major achievement by the project team. While we worked proactively with MD-LOT in an attempt to achieve offshore consent – including compensation plans – within the 12-month target window, award within 15 months reflects our team’s expertise, passion, commitment and seamless teamwork,” commented Hugh Yendole, project director.

Scottish Council Greenlights Onshore Plans for Salamander Floating Wind Farm

Planning & Permitting

Salamander is the first of the innovation (IN) projects from the INTOG leasing round to reach this stage.

Now the focus will shift to working with Crown Estate Scotland to secure an option agreement and preparing to secure a Contract for Difference, Salamander said.

The Salamander floating offshore wind farm is planned to be built approximately 35 kilometres off the coast of Peterhead and will have a capacity of up to 100 MW.