OWC, an offshore wind consultancy, recently concluded a significant project in collaboration with the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH). The objective was to analyze and evaluate wind conditions for a potential offshore wind tendering site in Germany. Recognizing the complexity of the task at hand, OWC brought together a team of internal experts and external partners, including Fraunhofer IWES and ProPlanEn, to comprehensively assess the historical wind potential across the N-6.7 site located in the German Exclusive Economic Zone within the North Sea.
The outcome of this thorough study has been officially published by the BSH as part of the pre-tendering process before the bid date of August 1, 2023. The wealth of data gathered can be effectively utilized by developers, energy suppliers, and banks in conjunction with project financing for offshore wind farms. The availability of such detailed information is crucial in facilitating informed decision-making and enhancing the overall viability of wind energy projects.
Commenting on the project's success, Okan Sargin, the Global Head of Wind & Site at OWC, highlighted the organization's extensive expertise in offshore wind resource modeling, horizontal scanning lidar technology, and data evaluation. By leveraging these capabilities, OWC's team of seasoned professionals collaboratively overcame various challenges, delivering a robust and optimal solution that benefits all stakeholders involved.
It's worth noting that the ambitious goals outlined in the German Offshore Wind Energy Act (Windenergie-auf-See-Gesetz) further emphasize the significance of projects like this. With a revised target of achieving 30GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and an even more ambitious aim of 70GW by 2045, the renewable energy sector in Germany is poised for substantial growth. These objectives will be realized through a well-structured tendering process, in accordance with the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (Erneuerbare-Energien-Gesetz).
Within this framework, the BSH assumes a central role in the tendering process by formulating site development plans for the areas earmarked for auction. Preliminary investigations are conducted to identify suitable locations, and the results of these assessments are subsequently published as part of the tendering procedure. A key requirement for bidders is access to detailed information regarding wind conditions at the target site, enabling them to design an optimized wind farm and create accurate yield forecasts based on these parameters.
OWC's successful completion of the wind condition analysis and assessment project, in collaboration with the BSH, represents a significant step forward in Germany's offshore wind energy sector. By providing vital data and insights, this effort contributes to the realization of the country's ambitious renewable energy targets while fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the industry.
