The project underpins Orkney’s role as a strategic energy hub for the North Sea, offering deep-water access, heavy-lift capacity, and extensive laydown space for the assembly and maintenance of floating and fixed offshore wind assets.
Orkney energy infrastructure – Scapa Deep Water Quay
Project description
Located in Europe’s largest natural harbour, Scapa Deep Water Quay (SDWQ) is a flagship £275 million development that forms the centrepiece of the Energy of Orkney initiative.
Strategically positioned to serve 15 gigawatts worth of nearby offshore wind projects, the new port will transform Orkney into a leading hub for assembly, integration, and marshalling within Scotland’s renewable energy supply chain.
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Finer details
With an estimated internal rate of return of 8.8%, the £275 million Scapa Deep Water Quay will generate annual revenues of £20 – 40 million and support more than 100 operational jobs.
The project is progressing through planning, with a preferred construction partner appointed under a pre-construction services agreement. Land options have been secured, and a special purpose vehicle (SPV) is being established for delivery. The final investment decision is expected in 2026.
Orkney Islands Council, the Statutory Harbour Authority for Orkney, owns and operates 29 piers and harbours across the islands. It has invested £10 million in the SDWQ’s development and leads the Energy of Orkney strategy to drive offshore wind and infrastructure growth.
Located in Scapa Flow’s deep, sheltered waters, SDWQ will serve as a major assembly and integration port for floating wind projects across the North Sea. Its unrivalled wet storage and heavy-lift capabilities make it a key node in the UK’s offshore energy network.
Last updated: 24 November 2025
Location
Opportunity summary
The Energy of Orkney initiative invites strategic investors to join a transformative programme that's developing Orkney as a world-class renewable energy hub.
At its heart, the £275 million Scapa Deep Water Quay offers rare access to deep-water port capacity with 20 hectares of laydown space, a 600 metre quay, and proximity to 15 gigawatts of offshore wind projects.
Backed by Orkney Islands Council and supported by the Scottish Government, the project offers a prime opportunity to invest in Scotland’s green industrial future.
Partners
As project lead and planning authority, Orkney Islands Council is investing £10 million and spearheading the Energy of Orkney strategy to build infrastructure, attract offshore wind developers, and grow the local energy economy.
With a total value of up to £500 million, the Scottish Government’s Offshore Wind Supply Chain Investment Programme underpins the project – driving inward investment and positioning Scotland as a global renewables leader.
Acciona Jones Joint Venture is the preferred construction partner under a pre-construction services agreement, delivering major marine infrastructure works to expand port capacity and enable offshore wind assembly.
Arch Henderson & Turner & Townsend is the technical advisor overseeing engineering design, project management, and cost assurance for the Scapa Deep Water Quay development.
Harper Macleod LLP provides legal and procurement advisory support to ensure robust governance, contract formation, and SPV establishment.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise has provided £5 million in funding to support pre-development activity.
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