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UK Scraps Tariffs on Offshore Wind Components, Saving Manufacturers Millions Annually

Government removes 6% import duties on 33 critical goods from 1 April, cutting costs for offshore wind manufacturers and accelerating UK’s clean energy transition

Tariff Removal to Boost Offshore Wind Industry


From 1 April 2026, the UK government will eliminate tariffs on 33 industrial goods critical to the offshore wind sector, including rotor blades, cables, and auxiliary systems. This authorised use measure will allow UK manufacturers to import these components duty-free, provided they are used for offshore wind energy production.


  • Cost Savings: The move will save manufacturers millions annually, enabling reinvestment in clean energy growth.
  • Economic Impact: Offshore wind is 40% cheaper to produce and maintain than new gas projects, making it a cost-effective and sustainable energy source.


Supporting the UK’s Clean Energy Ambitions


The tariff removal aligns with the UK’s Clean Energy Superpower mission and Trade Strategy, which aims to integrate trade and environmental goals. It follows a record £22 billion investment in offshore wind projects, secured through Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 7 in January 2026. This includes the Berwick Bank project—one of the largest offshore wind farms in the world—capable of powering over 12 million homes.


  • Energy Security: Offshore wind is a key pillar of the UK’s renewable energy strategy, reducing reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets.
  • Industrial Growth: The measure will support UK manufacturers, fostering job creation and economic growthin the clean energy sector.


How the Tariff Removal Works


The Authorised Use procedure allows UK-based traders to pay reduced or zero customs duty on imported goods, provided they are used for specified purposes (e.g., offshore wind manufacturing) within a set timeframe. Eligible imports include:


  • Rotor blades for offshore wind turbines.
  • Cables for offshore wind energy production.
  • Auxiliary and low-voltage systems for onshore and offshore substations.


Guidance for Importers:


  • Conditional Relief: Tariffs are waived only if goods are used for offshore wind production, protecting UK producers from cheap imports in other sectors.
  • Eligible Commodity Codes: A full list of CN10 codes is available on the GOV.UK guidance page.