Cierco Energy secures seabed rights for Llŷr floating wind projects

The agreement unlocks two 100-MW test and demonstration floating offshore wind projects off the Pembrokeshire coast.

The Llŷr projects will be among the first in the UK to trial next-generation offshore wind technologies at scale.

“This initiative establishes a launchpad for future gigawatt-scale developments and positions Wales as a global leader in offshore wind innovation,” said the company.

“It will help transform South West Wales into a powerhouse for offshore engineering and supply chain advancement, generating high-skilled jobs and strengthening the region’s standing on the world energy map.”

Cierco Energy managing director Scott Harper hailed the agreement as a ‘defining moment’ for the Celtic Sea’s green energy future. “These demonstration projects are vital stepping stones, giving us the chance to test world-leading offshore foundations, mooring systems and dynamic cabling before scaling up to commercial deployments,” he said.

“We are committed to working closely with local communities, supply chain partners and government stakeholders to deliver on this vision. The successful delivery of Llŷr will not only generate pioneering technology clean power but will also catalyse a world-class industrial ecosystem spanning offshore fabrication, engineering, advanced manufacturing and technology exports.

“Demonstrator projects like Llŷr are where supply chains form, technologies are proven and investor confidence is built, today’s innovation hub can become tomorrow’s manufacturing cluster.”

The Crown Estate head of offshore wind Julia Rose said, “The Celtic Sea presents a significant opportunity to accelerate offshore wind development, unlocking new sources of clean energy through floating offshore wind while driving economic growth and creating long-term benefits for Wales.

“Projects such as Llŷr are helping to advance the technologies, skills and supply chains needed to support the next generation of offshore wind, and we are pleased to support this important milestone through the award of an agreement for lease.”