How the offshore wind sector can avoid a decommissioning crisis
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The UK’s offshore wind sector has expanded rapidly, driven by climate goals and government incentives. Yet, while installation dominates headlines, the conversation around decommissioning remains limited. As hundreds of turbines approach the end of their 20- to 25-year operational lives, what happens next is still uncertain. Without early intervention, the sector is likely to face serious safety, environmental and financial consequences.
Decommissioning brings hidden risks
Removing ageing infrastructure at sea presents complex technical challenges. Corroded components, unstable foundations and unpredictable weather conditions make operations more dangerous. Without proper planning, decommissioning can put workers at risk, damage marine ecosystems and threaten nearby assets.
When decommissioning is reactive, starting only after a turbine reaches the end of its operational life, risks multiply. Components weakened by decades of exposure become more likely to fail during removal. Equipment needed for safe dismantling is often specialised, and delays in sourcing it can escalate both safety risks and costs. As the UK operates over 50 offshore wind farms, this is no longer a future issue. It is already a growing concern.
Planning must start early
Decommissioning should be treated as an integral part of the lifecycle, not just an afterthought. Planning from the design stage allows for safer and more efficient dismantling. This includes developing robust end-of-life strategies, integrating predictive maintenance tools, and designing turbines with future removal in mind.
Beyond engineering, proactive planning provides commercial and reputational protection. Operators that address decommissioning early can reduce legal exposure, manage liabilities and reassure investors and regulators. Public confidence in renewable energy depends on demonstrating control over the full lifecycle, from installation to retirement.
The global picture is changing fast
Governments in other offshore wind markets are beginning to take a more structured approach. In the Netherlands, developers must submit detailed decommissioning plans before construction begins. Denmark requires financial guarantees to ensure that decommissioning is completed even if budgets change.
In the UK, progress is slower. While the Crown Estate and Offshore Energies UK offer guidance, there is little formal enforcement. Operators are not always incentivised to prioritise long-term safety planning. Meanwhile, global offshore wind capacity is set to double by 2025, increasing the number of sites facing similar challenges.
Responsibility must be clearly defined
Uncertainty around who is responsible for planning and funding decommissioning remains a challenge. Without clear ownership, projects risk delay or inconsistency in execution. Industry and government stakeholders need greater alignment on funding mechanisms, liability frameworks and planning obligations to ensure long-term project stability.
As offshore wind continues to scale, embedding decommissioning into lifecycle strategies will help the sector manage risk, control costs and maintain operational integrity. Clearer expectations and consistent practices will support safer outcomes for developers, supply chains and coastal communities alike.