Two giant energy firms have rescued the proposed London Array wind farm set to be built off the Thanet coast.
The £1.5 billion scheme was in danger after Shell pulled out of the project in May.
But now E.ON and Danish firm Dong Energy have become 50-50 partners in the farm after buying out Shell’s stake for an undisclosed sum.
The first phase should be completed by the end of 2012, subject to securing a number of contracts, such as those for the wind turbines.
E.ON UK chief executive Dr Paul Golby: “We believe that offshore schemes such as this have an important part to play as we look to ensure security of supply for the UK, reduce carbon emissions and keep energy as affordable as possible for our customers.”
The London Array scheme will see more than 270 giant wind turbines installed 12 miles off the Thanet coast.
Shell is leaving its staff in the project until the end of the year to enable a smooth handover.
Thanet South MP Stephen Ladyman said: “This is great news for the planet and great news for Thanet.
“London Array could produce enough clean energy to supply a substantial part of London and the South East and a significant number of jobs in East Kent.”
“Personally, I am still very angry about Shell’s decision and haven’t used a Shell station since they announced they were pulling out.
“I congratulate E.ON and Dong for understanding the importance of cutting CO2 emissions and appreciating the opportunity that the London Array offers. Well done them.”
News of the takeover was welcomed by the Secretary of State for Energy, John Hutton, who said: "It is great news that Eon and Dong will be taking this exciting project forward together.
"It will play an important role in our ambition to dramatically increase the amount of energy we get from renewable sources.
"This is further evidence that the incentives we have introduced have made the UK one of the most attractive places in the world to invest in offshore wind."
POSTED: 21/07/2008 14:43:57
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