The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA) has joined forces with Great British Energy to accelerate the rollout of renewable energy across the region, following the launch of the Great British Energy and UK Government’s Local Power Plan.
Under the new plan, Great British Energy will work with Mayoral and non‑Mayoral Combined Authorities to build long-term partnerships that will:
- speed up the deployment of clean power across local areas
- grow local and community energy programmes
- connect national capability with local expertise to unlock investable projects.
Devon and Torbay are already well positioned with a strong record of working with government and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to bring forward innovative renewable energy opportunities.
One of the most significant developments is the Crown Estate’s recent commitment to lease space in the Celtic Sea for 4.5 gigawatts (GW) of floating offshore wind (FLOW) generation by 2035. These projects, each roughly 1 GW, will be among the largest floating wind farms in the world, with the potential to supply up to 8% of the UK’s peak electricity demand.
This presents a huge economic opportunity for Devon and Torbay. The region is set to play a pivotal role in both the construction and long‑term servicing of these offshore wind farms. Appledore, on the North Devon coast, is ideally placed to support fabrication and assembly, while Ilfracombe Harbour could become a key launch point for maintenance vessels. The area’s seafaring training facilities further strengthen the region’s ability to develop the skilled workforce these projects will require.
By combining local expertise, national investment, and world-leading offshore wind ambition, the new partnership looks to put Devon and Torbay at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy transition.
Cllr David Thomas, Chair of the DTCCA, said:
” Our partnership with Great British Energy is an important step in accelerating our region’s transition to clean and locally produced energy. By working closely together, we can unlock new opportunities for investment and skilled jobs, while ensuring that the benefits of the energy transition are felt directly by our communities.”
Read the Local Power Plan on the Great British Energy website.