Event to showcase proposed SSE Renewables’ Northumberland offshore energy link

Plans for a “trailblazing offshore energy site” capable of helping power up to five million homes are to be showcased.

SSE Renewables is holding an event to highlight its Berwick Bank scheme to the public.

Described as “one of the world’s largest offshore renewable projects”, bosses say the 9000-job scheme would bolster National Grid reserves from a link at Cambois, near Blyth, Northumberland.

According to proposals, a 180-kilometre export cable would run from the wind farm’s turbines at East Lothian, in Scotland, to the North East seaside village.

And residents have the chance to find out more at a consultation event at East Bedlington Community Centre, between 1pm and 7pm, on Thursday, 11 May.

Gary Donlin, SSE Renewables’ head of offshore stakeholder engagement, said: “We are still very much in the development and pre-planning phase but, if approved, this could become a trailblazing offshore site at the forefront of delivering the country’s net-zero agenda.

“South East Northumberland has seen a remarkable transformation in terms of industry over the last decade-plus, and is now key location for renewable energy.”

The firm added any planning application isn’t likely to be made until later in the year.

Picture caption: SSE Renewables turbines offshore at Beatrice wind farm