What makes these auctions different is the groundwork that has already been laid. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency has done the heavy lifting, studying everything from the ocean floor to typical wind speeds. That means auction winners can skip those steps, speeding up the journey from plan to power.
A winning formula
Germany is not just looking for the highest bidder. Instead, it is shaking things up with a points-based system that rewards more than just deep pockets. Bidders can earn points for how much they are willing to pay, of course, but also for how environmentally friendly their operations are. Factors such as the use of renewable energy in manufacturing the turbines, training opportunities for workers, environmentally friendly construction techniques, and plans for long-term power supply all come into play. This approach encourages bidders to think about sustainability and community impact.
What’s next?
Bidders have until August 1, 2024, to submit their offers. Once the bids are in and reviewed, the winners will be announced, marking the next chapter in Germany’s offshore wind story. They will get the green light to start the planning and approval process for their wind farms, a crucial step in getting those turbines spinning and generating clean, renewable energy.
This latest auction round is part of a larger push by Germany to expand its renewable energy footprint. Alongside these 5,500 MW from pre-investigated sites, another 2.5 GW from non-pre-investigated areas were also auctioned off earlier in the year, showcasing Germany’s all-in approach to wind energy.
