The developers of Xlinks – an £18 billion ($22.1bn) Morocco-UK renewable power project – have said recent “political turmoil” in the UK could delay delivery beyond its 2027 deadline.

Dave Lewis, executive chair of the start-up, expects the project to be delayed by up to a year due to government reshuffle in the UK.

Lewis, in an interview with the Guardian, said the project had been positively received by the previous Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng, but fears the discussions will be started from scratch with his replacement.

Xlinks power project involves the development of up to 10.5GW renewable generation (wind and solar) in Morocco which will be transmitted to the UK using a 3,800km HVDC sub-sea cable.

The landmark renewable energy development is set to be delivered in stages with 3.6GW capacity expected by 2027.

Initial works have already begun with the developers securing planning permits for a HDVC cable manufacturing facility in North Ayrshire, Scotland.

The proposed converter station at Devon – the connection point in the UK – has received local pushback on several grounds including the use of 55-acre farmland for the facility.

Projects plans for the generation capacity in Morocco are yet to be locked down, but the sponsors have decided on a project finance structure to fund construction costs.

If progressed to delivery, the project will meet up to 8% of UK energy needs.