Extra £250,000 earmarked for offshore wind farm planning

Plans to explore the potential for an offshore wind farm in Jersey’s waters could receive a further £250,000 boost, subject to approval of the 2026 Budget.

The proposed funding, which would come from the Climate Emergency Fund, is intended to support “policy development” as the project moves forward.

Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce has confirmed that he plans to bring a proposition before the States Assembly in January 2026 on whether the Island should formally pursue the wind farm.

In correspondence with the Offshore Wind Review Panel, Deputy Luce wrote:

“I have reviewed the Assembly timetable, already busy with a number of important propositions, and in discussion with other Ministers and recognising the need to give Assembly Members adequate time to fully reflect on the recommendation, a debate will be scheduled for January 2026.”

So far, close to £1 million has been spent on research and preparatory work. Figures released this week under a Freedom of Information request show that £941,541 has been committed to the project since 2023.

The initiative stems from the Carbon Neutral Roadmap, approved in 2022, which included commitments to assess options for large-scale renewable energy in Jersey.

In April 2024, the Assembly voted in favour of taking the next step in developing the scheme. If this year’s Budget secures States approval in December, the new funding allocation will follow in 2026.