WWF Scotland has welcomed the use of the revolutionary technology

The opening of the world’s first floating windfarm has been welcomed by environmental charities.

The revolutionary green energy plant off the coast of Peterhead was officially opened by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today.

The windfarm will provide electricity for up to 20,000 homes.

Gina Hanrahan, acting head of policy at WWF Scotland said: “With around a quarter of Europe’s offshore wind resource in Scotland, it’s great to see the world’s first floating windfarm inaugurated off our coast.

“Offshore wind is already an industrial success story across the UK, cutting emissions, creating jobs and dramatically driving down costs. By demonstrating the commercial viability of floating wind, Scotland can help to develop the industry in new frontiers and deeper waters.

“With this kind of innovation and investment, and continued political support, Scotland will continue to power towards our target of securing half of all our energy needs form renewable sources by 2030.”

Friends of the Earth Scotland director, Dr Richard Dixon, said the opening is a sign of great progress. "Together with partners from around the globe we will make history with the world’s first ever floating wind farm," he said. "We can be rightly proud of the role that Scottish effort and ingenuity has played in bringing this ground breaking project to fruition."

The First Minister said: "This pilot project underlines the potential of Scotland's huge offshore wind resource and positions Scotland at the forefront of the global race to develop the next generation of offshore wind technologies.”