In a groundbreaking move, Denmark has laid the foundation for its most ambitious offshore wind project to date, paving the way for sustainable electricity generation to power over 14 million households. In an unprecedented development, the Danish public will also have a stake in this venture. The agreement not only ensures a secure energy supply but also promotes marine conservation through the establishment of a dedicated marine nature fund.
A collaborative effort between the government and several political parties including SF, Liberal Alliance, Conservative People’s Party, Red-Green Alliance, Danish Social Liberal Party, Danish People’s Party, and The Alternative, the agreement outlines the framework for the largest offshore wind expansion in Danish history. With a capacity of 9GW, this endeavor has the potential to grow to an impressive 14GW or even more. Consequently, these offshore wind parks can significantly contribute to the green energy production in Denmark and Europe, as well as the development of green hydrogen and other PtX products.
The journey towards this momentous agreement began last year when a broad majority in the Danish Parliament sealed a climate agreement aimed at fostering a greener and safer Denmark. This was followed by the Energy Island Bornholm deal in 2020, initially set at 2GW but later expanded to 3GW. Combining these efforts with the additional capacity from the Energy Agreement of 2018 and the Finance Act of 2022, the goal of tendering a total of 9GW was firmly established.
Significantly, the agreement ensures that Danish society reaps the benefits of this shared resource. This will be achieved through the bidders’ concession payment, coupled with the state’s co-ownership of 20% of the tenders for the 6GW. “The agreement makes Denmark greener. When the turbines are spinning, we can cover all our electricity consumption with green power – even to such an extent that we can also contribute to Europe’s green transition and security of supply,” stated Lars Aagaard, the Minister of Climate, Energy, and Supply.
Aagaard further emphasized the historical significance of the agreement, as it marks the first time that the Danish state and its citizens will become co-owners of offshore wind farms, granting them a share of the actual income generated. The commitment to sustainability is also evident, with new requirements and the establishment of a marine nature fund to ensure the preservation of nature. Moving forward, collaboration with market players will be pivotal in driving the next chapter of this groundbreaking endeavor.
Stephanie Lose, the Acting Minister of Economy, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the agreement, highlighting how the Danish marine areas will become a catalyst for the green transition not only within Denmark but across Europe. The agreement not only strengthens energy security but also supports Danish strengths and job creation, while reducing dependence on Russian gas. Importantly, it guarantees that society as a whole will share in the returns from Denmark’s wind resources.
Morten Bødskov, the Business Minister, hailed this historic day as Denmark leverages its offshore wind prowess on an unprecedented scale. The agreement underscores the government’s commitment to co-own individual offshore wind farms, allowing Danish society to benefit equitably from the utilization of their shared ocean resource. This collaboration between the government and businesses signifies a shared vision for investing in the green transition, ultimately benefiting society at large.
