There are various reasons why the construction of offshore wind farms has taken off:
Large space
Many parts of the world are densely populated and lack space for large wind power solutions. Ecological and aesthetic issues may also prevent the establishment of power plants in unpopulated natural areas.
Strong winds
The shallow seas along the coastline are obvious locations for offshore wind power solutions. The wind is not disrupted by hills or buildings, and blows more predictably and less turbulently than on land. Also, space is usually not an issue.
Offsetting extra costs
While the construction of offshore wind power plants is more expensive than onshore plants, the wind conditions at sea often offset these extra costs during the lifetime of the turbine.
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Horns Reef website
North Hoyle website
Horns Reef: View the construction of one of the world’s largest offshore wind power projects (approx 5 min.)
North Hoyle: View the construction of the UK’s first major wind power project off the north coast of Wales (approx 9 min.)