Plan for 7,000 offshore wind tubines

Up to 7,000 new offshore wind turbines could be built around the UK – enough to power almost all the homes in the country.

A study commissioned for the Government has identified potential offshore development sites around the country and assessed the potential environmental impact of turbine building.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband said: "In terms of electricity, offshore wind power could potentially make the single biggest contribution to our 2020 renewable energy target so it's vital we maximise the UK's natural resources to help in the fight against climate change.

"This report provides a real advance in our understanding of the ecology and geology of the UK marine environment so we can continue to ensure that projects like wind farms are built in the most suitable places and that we will also protect the natural environment."