The UK government has set July 2026 as the opening date for Allocation Round 8 under the Contracts for Difference scheme, following the record offshore wind outcome secured in the previous round.

In January 2026, the government said Allocation Round 7 had secured 8.4 GW of offshore wind capacity, the largest amount awarded in a UK CfD auction to date.

RenewableUK said the earlier timing for the next auction was a positive step. The industry body said AR8 could reinforce the UK’s energy security by speeding up domestic renewable electricity generation.

It added that recent global events had again highlighted the UK’s exposure to disruption in international fossil fuel markets, and said expanding electricity generation at home through wind and solar could help reduce that risk while supporting more stable power prices.

According to RenewableUK, as many as 18 offshore wind farms could compete for contracts in the upcoming round. New onshore wind and solar projects could also take part.

The organisation also said strong competition between projects is important to secure value for billpayers. It added that developers need clear action on grid connection dates, charges and delivery timelines so they can enter the round with greater certainty.