The Welsh Government has approved Section 36 Consent for the 200MW Llŷr Wind Farm in the Celtic Sea, the first major offshore wind approval under the new administration. Developed by Cierco Energy off Pembrokeshire, the project aims to deliver first power by 2031 and is expected to support roughly 2,000 construction jobs plus additional skilled roles after commissioning. Llŷr has secured a marine licence from Natural Resources Wales and an Agreement for Lease with The Crown Estate and will act as a test site for deeper‑water offshore wind technologies while boosting the regional supply chain and Wales' net‑zero goals.
Wales Grants Section 36 Consent For 200MW Llŷr Offshore Wind Farm — First Major Project Under New Administration
The project is targeting its initial power generation for 2031. Credit: fokke baarssen/Shutterstock.com.
The Welsh Government has granted Section 36 Consent for the 200MW Llŷr Wind Farm, marking the first major offshore wind project approved under the new Welsh administration.
The consent allows Cierco Energy's development in the Celtic Sea, off the Pembrokeshire coast, to progress toward construction with a target of first power generation in 2031.
Construction is expected to support around 2,000 jobs, with additional skilled roles anticipated once the wind farm becomes operational. Llŷr has already passed key regulatory milestones: Natural Resources Wales issued the project's marine licence in June, and Cierco signed an Agreement for Lease with The Crown Estate in July to secure seabed rights.
Test Hub For Deeper‑Water Offshore Wind Technology
Llŷr will serve as a test and demonstration site for technologies designed for deeper waters and more demanding conditions. The project aims to demonstrate pathways for further offshore wind development in the Celtic Sea and to support Wales' net‑zero ambitions.
Beyond energy generation, Llŷr is expected to stimulate regional supply chain development and contribute to industrial renewal in south‑west Wales by creating opportunities for local businesses, ports and universities.
Adam Price, Wales Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy: "Major offshore wind projects such as this can be catalysts for economic growth and prosperity. We will work with the company to ensure this project delivers high‑quality jobs for people in Wales and supports our mission to boost productivity."
Scott Harper, CEO of Cierco Energy: "Securing Section 36 Consent is a fantastic achievement for Llŷr and for Wales. As one of the Celtic Sea's first offshore wind test and demonstration projects, Llŷr will help position South West Wales as a global hub for offshore wind innovation and create opportunities for local businesses, ports, universities and the wider supply chain."
With planning permission secured, Cierco Energy will advance detailed design, procurement and stakeholder engagement to deliver a pioneering project that balances technological innovation with local economic benefits.
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