The German Federal Network Agency recently announced that RWE has successfully secured two significant sites, N-9.1 and N-9.2, in the North Sea as part of the latest offshore wind auction.
These sites are strategically located around 110 to 115 kilometers northwest of the island of Borkum, near the border with the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone.
Site Details and Potential
The awarded sites, N-9.1 and N-9.2, are substantial, with each capable of hosting offshore wind farms with a total capacity of 2000 MW.
RWE has committed to a total bid price of €250 million for these sites, underlining their commitment to expanding their renewable energy portfolio.
The company is also considering a collaboration with TotalEnergies to develop these offshore projects, which could further strengthen their strategic position in the offshore wind sector.
Strategic Importance
Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, emphasized the critical role of offshore wind in Germany’s energy transition and RWE’s Growing Green strategy.
He noted that the acquisition of these sites adds significant capacity to RWE’s already robust offshore wind portfolio in Germany.
Utermöhlen also expressed enthusiasm for the potential collaboration with TotalEnergies and highlighted that RWE’s teams are prepared to commence work on these new projects.
Project Timeline
The investment decisions for the N-9.1 and N-9.2 sites are expected to be made by 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Following the necessary permits, offshore construction is projected to begin in 2029 for N-9.1 and in 2030 for N-9.2.
The full commissioning of these wind farms is planned for 2031 (N-9.1) and 2032 (N-9.2), marking significant milestones in Germany’s renewable energy expansion.
Background and Future Planning
In August 2024, a total of three areas—N-9.1, N-9.2, and N-9.3—with a combined capacity of 5500 MW were offered in the offshore wind tender.
The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) conducted preliminary studies for the awarded areas, gathering essential data on the marine environment, subsoil, and wind and oceanographic conditions.
This information will be crucial for RWE as they move forward with the detailed planning of the wind farms.
The projects have a legal right to grid connection, which is scheduled for 2030 (N-9.1) and 2031 (N-9.2). The licences granted for these sites are valid for 25 years, with the possibility of extending them to 35 years, providing a long-term framework for the operation of these offshore wind farms.