Abu Dhabi partnership in Hywind Scotland project

Statoil has taken on a strategic partner for the world’s first floating windfarm, off north-east Scotland.

The Norwegian oil giant agreed to sell 25% of its assets in Hywind Scotland pilot park to Abu Dhabi renewable energy group Masdar.

The 30MW windfarm 15 miles off Peterhead, could power 20,000 households. Production is expected to start late this year.

Statoil and Masdar will share the development risk, with Masdar covering 25% of previous and future costs.

Statoil will continue to hold a 75% share in Hywind Scotland.

Meanwhile, ScottishPower Renewables has contracted marine engineering specialist Van Oord and Great Yarmouthbased Seajacks to transport and install foundation jackets on the £2.5 billion East Anglia One offshore windfarm. The contract will support 140 positions with Seajacks, and allow up to 75 new jobs.

The windfarm will generate 714MW of electricity when completed in 2020.