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Breaking News: Noordzeker Consortium and Vattenfall-CIP Joint Venture Secure Locations in Dutch 4 GW Offshore Wind Tender

The Netherlands awards development permits to Noordzeker and Zeevonk II for major offshore wind sites IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Beta, totaling 4 GW.
BREAKING: Noordzeker Consortium, Vattenfall-CIP JV Secure Sites in 4 GW Dutch Offshore Wind Tender

Netherlands Awards Development Permits for Major Offshore Wind Sites

The consortium Noordzeker, composed of SSE Renewables, Dutch pension fund ABP and its asset manager AGP, and a joint venture between Vattenfall and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), known as Zeevonk II, have secured development permits for the IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Beta offshore wind sites in the Netherlands. The developers will prioritize circularity and environmentally conscious solutions in the construction and operation of their projects.

The Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) announced the tender results on 11 June. With a combined capacity of at least 4 GW across both locations, this is the largest offshore wind tender round in Netherlands’ history.

Noordzeker consortium won the permit for the 2 GW site IJmuiden Ver Alpha, while the Zeevonk II joint venture secured the IJmuiden Ver Beta site of the same capacity. The application period for these sites commenced on 29 February and concluded on 28 March, with RVO receiving multiple applications despite current challenges in the offshore wind sector.

The IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Beta offshore wind farms, which will be constructed without subsidies, are projected to be operational in 2029. For this tender, the Dutch government evaluated the extent to which the developers follow the principles of the International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC) Agreement for the Renewable Energy Sector.

RVO also considered the degree to which the project proposals incorporate circularity, environmental impact, and value retention in their design, construction, operation and decommissioning phases. For the IJmuiden Ver Alpha site, an additional criterion was the wind farm’s contribution to the Dutch North Sea ecosystem. For the IJmuiden Ver Beta site, the government emphasized improved integration of the wind farm into the energy system and required measures that contribute to reducing harbour porpoise disturbance days during construction.

According to Dutch Minister of Climate and Energy, Rob Jetten, “Noordzeker and Zeevonk II have ambitious plans for these new offshore wind farms. This demonstrates that wind farms and nature can coexist harmoniously and that offshore wind, with intelligent solutions, can alleviate pressure on the onshore power grid.”

The IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm Zone, located 62km off the west coast of the Netherlands, comprises three 2 GW sites: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma. The third site, IJmuiden Ver Gamma, is set to be offered for tender in 2025.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024