Vattenfall has made the final investment decision (FID) on the 1,600MW Nordlicht offshore wind cluster in the North Sea, marking a key step in Germany’s transition to renewable energy. The cluster consists of two wind farms: Nordlicht 1, with a capacity of 980MW, and Nordlicht 2, which will generate around 630MW. The construction of both wind farms is set to begin in 2026, with operations expected to start in 2028.
Helene Biström, Vattenfall’s Head of Wind, highlighted the project’s importance for Germany’s energy future, saying: “The Nordlicht offshore wind cluster makes a significant milestone in the path to enabling fossil freedom. By accelerating Germany’s energy transition and supporting industrial decarbonisation, it will provide clean, reliable energy while driving innovation and sustainability in the sector. We look forward to realising this important project in close collaboration with our supply chain partners.”
The project’s significance extends beyond energy generation. Vattenfall and BASF have agreed on a long-term renewable electricity supply for BASF’s European chemical production. In 2024, BASF had acquired shares in the Nordlicht cluster, but Vattenfall will repurchase them as part of the updated agreement. This long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) will ensure that BASF has access to renewable electricity amid growing demand in the sector.
Located 85 kilometers off the island of Borkum in the North Sea, the Nordlicht cluster will also be a key player in Vattenfall’s sustainability efforts. Both wind farms will feature turbine towers made partially with low-emission steel, helping to reduce their carbon footprint by 16%.
As part of the project, Vattenfall and BASF have secured a conditional agreement with Vestas for the supply and installation of 112 V236-15MW turbines. The FID for Nordlicht 2 remains conditional upon the receipt of necessary permits.
