Windfarms 'will not affect marine life'
A new study has claimed up to 7,000 turbines can be established offshore
The government has published research claiming the creation of new offshore windfarms close to the UK will not threaten marine wildlife.
According to the study by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), it has been claimed that between 5,000 and 7,000 offshore turbines can be established without harming the local environment.
The effects of such developments on geology, marine mammals and industries such as shipping were considered by researchers undertaking the report.
Bird populations were also surveyed as part of the study, which is now subject to a 12-week consultation.
Ed Miliband, energy and climate change secretary, said: "It's vital we maximise the UK's natural resources to help in the fight against climate change."
He added that the report "provides a real advance in our understanding of the ecology and geology of the UK marine environment".
Earlier this month, ScottishPower Renewables received planning consent to establish its Lynemouth windfarm in Northumberland.
The site is expected to include 13 turbines that will produce 30 megawatts of green energy.
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