According to a new report from RenewableUK global operational capacity for offshore wind has surged by 21 per cent over the past year, rising from 61.5 gigawatts to 75GW.

The new capacity added over the past year generates enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 14 million UK homes all year round. China and the UK retain their top positions with 36.7GW and 14.7GW operational respectively. Germany is third with 8.3GW, the Netherlands fourth with 3.7GW and Denmark fifth with 2.7GW:

The report forecasts that global operational offshore wind capacity could soar to 277GW by the end of 2030, marking nearly a fourfold increase from current levels.

The global pipeline of projects, including all stages from operational to early development, has increased slightly to 1,231GW from 1,228GW a year ago. This includes over 1,500 projects spanning 41 countries. The smaller increase compared to previous years is attributed to developers refining their portfolios and advancements in leasing and consenting processes worldwide.

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China has the largest pipeline (227GW), with the UK second at 96GW across 122 projects in UK waters. The USA is in third place with 94GW, Sweden fourth on 68GW and Brazil fifth with 61GW:

The report reveals that the UK has 15.8GW of offshore wind capacity in the planning system awaiting a decision – the highest amount ever in planning at one time.

The report highlights that 10,774MW (10.8GW) of new UK offshore wind capacity are eligible for this year's Contracts for Difference auction (AR6), including 12 fixed-foundation projects and 4 floating projects. With an average operational timeline of 5 years post-CfD award, capacity allocated in the next two rounds could significantly support the UK's target of achieving 50GW by 2030. The report projects that nearly 44GW of capacity could be operational in UK waters by the end of the decade, encompassing projects that may be partially operational by then.

RenewableUK's Chief Executive Dan McGrail said: "It’s great to see we’ve reached a landmark 75 gigawatts of offshore wind operational worldwide, with the UK maintaining its place as a global leader in an intensely competitive international market.

"To consolidate the UK’s position even further, we’re asking the next government to maximise the amount of offshore wind capacity we can secure in this year’s auction for new projects. The current budget will only enable less than half the capacity which is eligible to go ahead, and the floating wind budget will only secure one project even though four can bid in this year, so we need to see more ambition within the first few days of the new government taking office.

"It’s also significant that the UK has a record high of more than 15 gigawatts of new offshore wind capacity in planning. We’ll be urging the next government to reform the planning system to enable projects to go ahead in a more timely manner, to increase the UK’s energy security and drive down bills for consumers."

The report is being published the day before RenewableUK’s 2-day Global Offshore Wind 2024 conference and exhibition in Manchester.