RENEWABLE energy giant Ørsted has announced plans to develop big floating windfarms off Scotland in a move that underlines the appeal of the country to international investors.
The Danish company said it plans to bid for offshore acreage in the ScotWind licensing round, which has generated huge interest already.
A range of energy sector heavyweights, including BP and Scottish Hydroelectric owner SSE, have said they plan to participate in the landmark round.
Launched by Crown Estate Scotland in June last year, ScotWind is the first offshore wind leasing round to cover acreage off the country for a decade.
When the round was launched, Crown Estate Scotland held out the prospect it could pave the way to around 10 new commercial windfarms being developed off Scotland and help to unlock £8 billion investment.