The 1,500MW capacity wind farm is expected to be operational by 2030.
The wind farm includes offshore components for electricity generation and both offshore and onshore infrastructure to connect to the national grid. It features up to 96 wind turbine generators, four offshore substation platforms, inter-array cables, offshore interconnector cables, and export cables. Onshore elements include cables, four transition joint bays to link offshore and onshore cables, and a substation connecting to the existing Bodelwyddan national grid substation.
Designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), the Mona project submitted its development consent order (DCO) application to the Planning Inspectorate in February 2024. The application was accepted in March 2024, and after a thorough review, recommendations were forwarded to the Secretary of State in April 2025. This project marks the first from the UK’s Round 4 Offshore Wind Licensing Arrangements to receive approval, achieving this milestone faster than any other UK offshore wind farm.
Sarah Pirie, EnBW programme director, stated: “We are delighted that the Mona offshore wind farm has secured consent from the Secretary of State of Energy Security and Net Zero. This approval follows a rigorous and comprehensive process, affirming the project’s readiness to deliver large-scale, lower-carbon energy that strengthens the UK’s energy security and is crucial to achieving a net-zero future, while aiming to minimise environmental impact. We will now advance supply chain engagement across multiple engineering and construction scopes.”
The project awaits a marine licence from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) before construction can begin. The Mona team is collaborating with NRW to ensure timely issuance of the licence. This initiative supports the UK’s commitment to expanding renewable energy, enhancing energy reliability, and advancing sustainable infrastructure development.
