Scotland stands at the forefront of the global offshore wind revolution, with some of the most abundant and accessible wind resources in Europe. Maximising this potential will be critical to transitioning away from fossil fuels and achieving net zero by 2045. But offshore wind is more than a means to meet climate goals. As oil and gas is phased out, it represents one of Scotland’s greatest economic opportunities. The challenge is not just building more wind farms – but ensuring that the value created stays in Scotland through supply chains, skilled jobs, and fair distribution of rewards.

In recent years, the Scottish Government has accelerated efforts to expand offshore wind. At the forefront of this revolution is ScotWind. In 2022, Crown Estate Scotland awarded seabed rights for 20 projects with a combined potential capacity of 30 GW – at the time, the world’s largest commercial leasing round for floating offshore wind. 

With the first ScotWind projects now underway, there is an opportunity to reflect on key questions – the answers to which can inform the design of future leasing rounds. Who will benefit from owning Scotland’s offshore wind resources? How much of the supply chain is anchored locally? Are workers guaranteed fair pay and conditions? The answers will shape whether offshore wind becomes a cornerstone of Scotland’s just transition – or a missed opportunity where benefits flow overseas.

While the first ScotWind leasing round marks a considerable achievement, this paper explores whether the process struck the right balance between the interests of developers, workers, the taxpayer and Scottish supply chains. After identifying key lessons, the paper sets out a series of recommended reforms for future leasing rounds designed to maximise the economic benefits while still ensuring Scotland still remains an attractive destination for investment.