Berlin, 02.10.2024:  The German Offshore Wind Energy Association (hereinafter "BWO") welcomes the presentation and ongoing consultation of the "Scenario Framework for the Electricity Grid Development Plan" by the Federal Network Agency and the transmission system operators. We particularly welcome the transparency this creates with regard to the underlying assumptions.

Summary of the BWO statement:

▪ Focus on new expansion goals welcome: We welcome the fact that the new draft scenario framework focuses on the expansion targets for offshore wind energy of at least 40 GW of generation capacity in 2035 and at least 70 GW of generation capacity in 2045, thus aligning grid planning with the achievement of these targets.

▪ Assume longer lifetimes of offshore wind farms: For the purposes of the Grid Development Plan, longer lifetimes of offshore wind farms (OWPs) than 25 years. At least thirty years and for newer OWPs at least 35 years of use are assumed.

▪ Consider combined connection concepts: In addition to the electrical connection alone or the exclusive production of hydrogen, their combination should also be examined.

▪ Include perspective areas in the solution space: We support the fact that Scenario C goes beyond the objectives of the WindSeeG and also includes other potential areas, even if their availability is still uncertain.

The full statement can be found here.