Presentation Description: A practical overview of the energy permitting process in the UK, with lessons learned from experience of a mature market and considering how that could be applied to the US market, and how the UK could learn from the US. It is intended for those in the US offshore wind industry (including both private sector and public sector regulators) who wish to understand perspectives from another jurisdiction and best practice and process. Key topics will include:
1 Overview of process for getting offshore wind permits in England, in particular the “one stop shop” approach, and use of set deadlines in law to streamline and speed up obtaining permits. Contrast with US consent process, drawing comparisons for potential lessons to be learned given the Biden administration’s requirement for BOEM to consider at least 16 Construction and Operations Plans by 2025.
2 How the environmental impact assessment process works in the UK, including: the routine use of Project Design Envelopes; and considering cumulative effects assessments. Case study drawing on lessons learned from acting for Orsted on the 2.9GW Hornsea Project Three to achieve acceptable environmental outcomes.
3 Approaches to stakeholder engagement including the public and governmental bodies, and experience working to educate and upskill individuals and parties unfamiliar with infrastructure consenting. Lessons learned from various major infrastructure projects, including Hornsea Project Three and Cleve Hill Solar Park.
Learning Objectives:
Have a high level overview of the UK consenting process, and key areas of difference to understand any lessons to be learned from that jurisdiction.
Understand the environmental impact assessment process in the UK, and understand reasons for key approaches taken such as the project design envelope, and how and why cumulative assessment is required.
Understand the drivers behind the various stakeholders involved in an offshore wind farm permit application, their drivers and how to approach them for success in a permit application.
