The German Offshore Wind Energy Association (BWO) has suggested a new system for the government to enable developers to return offshore wind sites that are unlikely to proceed, allowing for a quicker re-tendering process.
This initiative aims to prevent long-term blocking of offshore wind areas, which could impact projects with up to EUR 50 billion in investment.
The proposal targets offshore wind sites awarded in 2023-2025 without a final investment decision. BWO notes that 14 sites with a total capacity of 17.8 GW were awarded in this period, with 16 GW potentially affected.
The system would let developers return sites within four weeks of regulation implementation. Returned sites would be reallocated under Germany’s revised offshore wind auction framework from 2027, possibly via special tenders.
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“The German government has not included a buyback option for projects in the offshore wind auction rules,” said Stefan Thimm, Managing Director of BWO.
“Additionally, the auction design poses significant risks to companies, especially with grid connection delays, potentially blocking areas for up to 16 GW. This could halt project development and disrupt supply chains.”
BWO’s plan stipulates developers returning sites cannot bid for them again and must hand over project data and studies to authorities. Refunds for certain payments would not be given, but security deposits would be fully repaid to encourage early disclosure.
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