The government is launching a new call for evidence to examine how the UK can build back greener through marine renewable projects across the country.

Marine renewables include emerging technologies such as floating offshore wind farms, tidal stream and wave energy. The consultation will invite views from developers and other interested parties on areas including:

• how projects could be funded
• how costs could be reduced
• how the environmental impacts can best be handled
• how supply chains could benefit in the nations and regions of the UK

The new consultation builds on the UK’s success in renewable energy so far, with more offshore wind capacity than any other country in the world and well over a third of its energy now coming from renewables.

Secretary of State for Business and Energy Alok Sharma said:

As an island nation we are perfectly placed to capitalise on clean marine energy, building on our world-leading position in offshore wind.

Examining how to make the most of our natural resources and support marine technologies that are cost-effective for the consumer will be crucial as we build back better, creating green jobs and reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

Marine technologies could benefit every part of the UK. For example, tidal stream projects that harness the energy of tides could be suitable for the Highlands and Islands and North Wales, while floating offshore wind turbines could be suitable for deeper waters off the coast of Scotland, Wales and South West England.

The call for evidence comes after the recent consultation on the fourth round of the successful Contracts for Difference auction. This new consultation builds on that work to provide the government with evidence to base its decisions on future support for marine renewables.