What does the CIB mean for AR7 and beyond?

With Allocation Round 7 (AR7) of the UK’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme closing for applications in April 2025, offshore wind developers are making final decisions on their bids. The Clean Industry Bonus (CIB), a new mandatory funding mechanism, has become a focal point of industry debate. Intended to stimulate investment in UK-based supply chains, the CIB could provide financial support to offshore wind projects but also adds new compliance requirements and potential financial penalties. With AR7 results expected later this year, a key question arises: will this policy successfully drive supply chain investment, or will it deter participation in an already challenging market?