BOWL – a joint venture between SSE Renewables, with a 75% stake, and Repsol of Spain – said Wick, off the coast of Caithness in northern Scotland, is "likely" to be the future location of the O&M base.

Subject to a positive final investment decision, Beatrice is planned for construction in 2016.

"The MoU has been signed with Wick Harbour Authority and could see Beatrice base its O&M facilities at Wick Harbour should a positive final investment decision be made on the project in 2016," said Richard Escott, head of offshore development for SSE Renewables.

The