SSE Renewables and Equinor Submit Scoping Report for Dogger Bank D Wind Farm

30 June 2024 =SSE Renewables and Equinor have made significant progress in developing Dogger Bank D, the proposed fourth phase of the Dogger Bank Wind Farm. The companies have submitted a Scoping Report to The Planning Inspectorate, requesting a formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Opinion. This report is crucial as it outlines the project’s scope and identifies key environmental factors that need assessment.

Dogger Bank D, located 210km off the northeast coast in the North Sea, aims to have an installed capacity of up to 2GW. The project is set to connect to a new 400kV substation in East Riding of Yorkshire. This development is part of a 50/50 joint venture between SSE Renewables and Equinor.

The submission of the Scoping Report follows the National Grid ESO’s confirmation in March 2024 that Dogger Bank D will connect to the Birkhill Wood substation. The new phase is designed to maximize capacity from the eastern part of the current Dogger Bank C site. Designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), Dogger Bank D requires an EIA to submit a Development Consent Order (DCO) application.

The Dogger Bank Wind Farm, currently under construction, is the world’s largest offshore wind farm with a total capacity of 3.6GW across three phases: Dogger Bank A, B, and C. The proposed Dogger Bank D phase would expand this capacity, contributing significantly to renewable energy output.

Rob Cussons, Project Director for Dogger Bank D at SSE Renewables, highlighted the importance of the Scoping Report, stating, “The Scoping Report is an important milestone for Dogger Bank D and is a key part of the development of an offshore wind farm. The report lays out the scope of the project proposals and identifies key environmental factors. We look forward to receiving a Scoping Opinion from the Planning Inspectorate and input from consultees which will help inform our development proposals.”

A further round of public consultation on the Dogger Bank D proposals is scheduled for Autumn 2024. This will allow stakeholders and the public to provide feedback and insights, crucial for shaping the final development plans and ensuring the project’s success.