European potential

 “It is right and important that the key role of offshore wind energy in achieving climate goals is recognized and taken into account in the program of the German EU Council Presidency. Europe offers great potential for renewable energies and offshore wind energy can deliver electricity more reliably and cost-effectively than almost any other generation technology,” explains Catrin Jung, Chairwoman of the Federal Association of Offshore Wind Farm Operators (BWO).

“With the initiative for maritime spatial planning, the most important topic is taken up from our point of view, so that offshore wind energy can develop its full potential. Now the foundations are being laid for the decision as to which areas can be used under which conditions, ”continues Jung. "In addition, of course, key financing issues must be clarified and the right course set for cross-border projects."

In order to avoid a migration of European industrial companies to non-European countries - and thus carbon leakage - not only enough green energy must be made available at low prices. It is also necessary that a European market ramp-up of green hydrogen is ensured. Here, too, there are already good starting points. “Not least because of the high full-load hours, offshore wind energy is ideally suited for generating green hydrogen. Provided that there is a corresponding regulatory framework, we also see many opportunities for European cooperation here, ”explains BWO managing director, Stefan Thimm.

Since January 01st, Germany has also chaired the North Seas Energy Cooperation. According to WindEurope, the North Sea has the greatest potential for offshore wind energy with 450 GW. The next six months offer a good opportunity to create the necessary planning security for European projects.

“In order to guarantee a long-term, secure, affordable and sustainable energy supply, the EU Green Deal must now be translated into a realistic and reliable legal framework. From our point of view, that should be the core content of the German EU Council Presidency, ”says Thimm.