An independent report released by Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm outlines the investment, economic value and employment the project is set to deliver for Scotland and the wider UK.
Construction is underway, with activity at the Port of Leith, ongoing work on the substation at Cockenzie, a new operations facility being built at the Port of Montrose, and export cable installation from the Port of Blyth. The project is on track for first power in late 2026 and full commercial operation in 2027, and is expected to generate more than five terawatt hours of energy each year once complete.
The 50/50 joint venture between ESB and Red Rock Renewables said the project will invest £4.7 billion in the UK economy over its lifetime, including £2.7 billion to be spent in Scotland. The report prepared by BiGGAR Economics added that £1.0 billion will be invested in eastern Scotland, including East Lothian and Angus, supporting local and regional economies.
At peak construction, the development will support 2,600 full-time equivalent UK jobs. For operations, 50 direct long-term skilled roles are planned at the Port of Montrose.
The project said more than 320 UK companies have already supplied it, including 150 in Scotland. Named suppliers include Siemens Energy, Forth Ports, Innovair, OEG and Granada.
Project Director John Hill said the findings underline the project’s role in the UK transition toward a resilient and secure low-carbon energy system, while also supporting industrial capability, skilled employment and economic activity. Paul Lennon, head of offshore wind, hydrogen, and long-term storage at ESB, said offshore wind is central to the company’s net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 strategy and welcomed the publication of the report. Red Rock Renewables chief executive Xiaomeng Chen said Inch Cape is delivering value to the Scottish and UK economy and that offshore wind investment helps drive supply chain growth, skills development and quality jobs, with opportunities for local suppliers spanning development, construction and operations.
