Germany's Federal Network Agency has officially opened tenders for two new expanses in the North Sea, targeting a combined output of 2500MW. The areas earmarked for offshore wind farms comprise a 1500MW lot and a 1000MW zone, both situated approximately 120km northwest of Helgoland. Anticipated to be operational by 2031, these ventures present an opportunity for significant renewable energy contributions.
Notably, these areas have not undergone state investigations, placing the responsibility on successful bidders to conduct their own assessments. The selection process hinges on the bidder with the lowest funding requirement for the proposed wind farm, with a unique twist – if multiple bidders opt for zero cents per kilowatt hour in their bids, a dynamic bidding procedure akin to the 2023 process will unfold.
In this dynamic bidding scenario, the bidder demonstrating the highest willingness to pay will secure the contract through rounds of escalating bid levels. The proceeds from these tenders, particularly those concerning unexplored areas in 2023, amounted to a noteworthy €12.6 billion, with 90% allocated to mitigating electricity costs.
Interested parties must submit their bids by June 1, 2024. Following bid evaluations, the award process, and potential dynamic bidding proceedings, the decision will be communicated to bidders, and the tender results will be publicly disclosed.
Additionally, Germany's Federal Network Agency plans to unveil further tenders for offshore wind energy by March 1, 2024. These tenders encompass three areas that have undergone centralized examinations by the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, boasting a cumulative output of 5500MW.
