World's largest offshore wind farm gets green light

Dong Energy, E.on and Masdar have confirmed that they will invest £2 billion towards the construction of the world's largest offshore wind farm.

Situated in the Thames Estuary, the London Array offshore wind farm will be capable of powering 750,000 homes once complete.

Anders Eldrup, chief executive of Dong Energy, said the decision to build the farm is a significant cornerstone in the company's strategy to increase the amount of energy it produces from renewable sources.

"Dong Energy has built approximately half of all offshore wind farms in operation in the world today. Entering into the world's largest offshore wind farm project further strengthens Dong Energy's leading position in this field," he added.

Prime minister Gordon Brown described it as a flagship project and said the UK is a world leader where the construction of offshore wind farms is concerned.

In related news, turbine manufacturer Siemens said recently that it plans to expand its presence in the UK market.