MUFG Highlights Need for Offshore Wind to Compete for Capital Against Data Centres
Offshore wind sector requires £15bn annually in the UK and €15bn in Europe to meet growth ambitions amid intense competition from data centres. Expanding the lender base and securing longer-term debt are critical for sustaining project financing.
MUFG projects that the UK offshore wind sector will need £15bn ($20.2bn) in debt financing annually, with an additional €15bn ($17.5bn) required across Europe. This demand is juxtaposed with the €22.5bn ($26.3bn) needed in 2025 for the entire continent.
The bank emphasizes that longer-term financing is essential due to extended contract for difference (CfD) support durations and increasing project lifespans. Additionally, competition from data centres necessitates that offshore wind re-evaluate its investment appeal to attract a wider range of investors. The financing strategies must incorporate multi-tranche structures to draw in global liquidity.
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