Danish clean energy giant Orsted is stepping away from its partnership focused on offshore wind development in Norway, a collaboration that commenced over two years ago.
In June 2021, Orsted joined forces with Norwegian group Bonheur ASA's (OSL:BON) subsidiary, Fred. Olsen Renewables AS (now Fred. Olsen Seawind ASA), and energy company Hafslund to explore offshore wind opportunities in Norway.
On Monday, Bonheur announced Orsted's decision to withdraw from the partnership, citing a strategic shift in Orsted's investment priorities within its portfolio. Consequently, Orsted will no longer participate in the pursuit of offshore wind developments in Norway.
Despite Orsted's departure, Bonheur conveyed that Hafslund and Fred. Olsen Seawind will continue their collaborative efforts, focusing on advancing the Utsira Nord project and contributing to the broader landscape of offshore wind in Norway. However, the consortium, known as Blaavinge, has indicated it is unable to pursue the Sorlige Nordsjo II project.
In October, Norway made the decision to indefinitely postpone the bidding process for the Utsira Nord offshore wind zone in the North Sea. Additionally, the submission deadline for the Sorlige Nordsjo II area tender was extended by an additional two weeks.
This development comes at a time when Orsted faces challenges in the wind sector, resulting in significant losses in its U.S. offshore wind portfolio.
