The oil giant is joining forces with German utility group EnBW in an attempt to lease an area off the east coast of Scotland that could support offshore wind projects with 2.9 gigawatts (GW) generating capacity.

However, the two firms have said that the bid seeks to go far beyond developing wind power and aims to accelerate Scotland’s entire energy transition – from producing clean power to using it in new industries.

A successful bid would bring multi-billion pound investments into Scottish offshore wind projects and supporting infrastructure, including ports, harbours and shipyards. Bp has said it would also use its integrated business model to invest in net-zero industries, including green hydrogen production and significantly accelerating the expansion of Scotland’s EV charging network.

BP, EnBW and Forth Ports have already signed a Heads of Terms agreement with a financial commitment that will supplement Forth Ports’ £40million investment in their planned Renewables Hub at the Port of Leith.

The move represents a significant contribution to the development of Scotland’s offshore renewables infrastructure. This will create new opportunities and long term, high-quality jobs, supporting Scotland’s economic recovery and energy transition plans and the achievement of the country’s net-zero carbon emissions targets.

BP and EnBW have also confirmed that they would support and invest in a new skills capability accelerator developed by energy consultancy Xodus which will provide on-the-job project experience and formal learning.

The five-year, multi-million financial commitment includes creating entry-level energy transition roles, and the reskilling of hundreds of oil and gas workers, graduates and technicians with renewable sector capabilities.

Dev Sanyal, BP’s executive vice president for gas and low carbon, said: “Through our bid we aim to do far more than only develop offshore wind – we believe it can help fuel Scotland’s wider energy transition. We want to harness the clean power from Scotland’s offshore wind and use our capabilities as an integrated energy company to accelerate the country’s EV charging network, build its hydrogen offering and strengthen its supporting infrastructure, including ports and harbours.

“This will all take the right skills and abilities. The bid would build on Scotland’s deep experience in offshore oil and gas, equipping its workforce and supply chain with renewable capabilities, including creating apprenticeships, and supporting thousands of jobs. All of this is aimed at helping generate community wealth and creating a just transition in which people and communities do not get left behind.

“BP has proudly been in Scotland for a century. We believe this bid has the power to support a resilient clean energy future for Scotland for the next century and beyond.”