The project will feature about 325 turbines, although initial plans are for just 240 turbines, which will be installed across a 300km² area in the southern North Sea.
Onshore construction is expected to start in 2017 with offshore installation commencing in 2018, while power generation is planned to begin in 2019.
The project is anticipated to generate enough electricity for about 820,000 homes and inject £500m into the region’s economy.
The development, which is the first of six potential projects in the East Anglia Zone, is claimed to be the largest Round 3 offshore wind project to be approved in the UK.
ScottishPower Renewables CEO Keith Anderson said the project team spent over three years to develop the proposals of the project, and consulted with communities and stakeholders throughout the East Anglia region.
"This is the largest renewable energy project ever to receive planning consent in England and Wales, and it is a significant achievement to see our plans approved, and an important step forward towards a final investment decision," Anderson added.
"We will now take forward our discussions with the supply chain as we work towards unlocking the significant economic potential of the project. East Anglia ONE could support thousands of skilled jobs in construction and operation, and make a positive impact on the local and national economy for decades to come."
Image: The East Anglia One offshore wind farm is claimed to be the largest Round 3 offshore wind project to be approved in the UK. Photo: Courtesy of ScottishPower Renewables / Vattenfall 2009 – 2014.
