Offshore wind is crucial to the EU’s plans to double its share of renewables, but challenges such as grid connections and supply chain issues may impede rapid progress. Michel Maaskant, Sector Sales Specialist for Offshore Renewables at Aggreko, examines how to address the sector’s construction and power concerns.
Developers are racing to build enough wind farms to meet the EU’s renewable energy targets, aiming for 42.5% of electricity from green sources by 2030. This goal requires doubling the share of renewables. (source) Offshore wind farm development faces obstacles, yet wind energy is key for decarbonizing the grid, with capacity needing to rise from 204 GW to 450 GW by decade’s end. (source)
The main hurdle is not the desire to build, but the build process itself. Many projects are stalled due to grid connection shortages, and the supply chain for offshore wind is too small and underdeveloped to meet rapid growth needs. (source)
In 2024, industry analyst Ember reported that 11 out of 26 grid plans in Europe were based on outdated targets. (source) These factors may cause the grid to lag behind renewable development, potentially leaving more projects in limbo.
Solutions like ‘acceleration areas’ for permits and strategic supply partnerships have been proposed to streamline construction. However, this overlooks practicalities like sustainability requirements, which will soon necessitate full emission reporting, emphasizing the need for optimal equipment and processes. (source)
The Power Predicament
Understanding power challenges is crucial for offshore wind projects. Aggreko has released a whitepaper, Race to Renewables, surveying over 850 decision-makers across various European regions.
The report highlights the importance of temporary power for constructing new wind sites. It addresses the complex supply chains where delays, including insufficient power, can impact timelines.
The build process is demanding due to remote locations and harsh conditions, making a stable power supply essential. Aggreko’s research shows multiple and single turbine start-ups as major challenges for projects.
Navigating Rough Seas
Powering construction equipment and heavy-lift vessels also shows the need for on-site power generation to minimize project disruptions.
The report indicates insufficient energy storage and lack of temporary power solutions affect project delivery, with 40% of German and UK respondents citing grid connections as a major challenge. Scalable power is needed for offshore sites, with rising demand for temporary power across Europe.
Driving Sustainable Supply Chains
Race to Renewables also covers sustainable practices for offshore wind projects. According to the report, emissions regulations are a top environmental challenge, with 47% citing it as significant.
Most emissions occur during turbine manufacturing and erection, making construction a major concern. Asset performance and efficiency are priorities, with 45% emphasizing the need for supply chain monitoring to enhance remote equipment efficiency.
While there has been progress since 2023, scaling greener supply chains is challenging, and coordination is needed to meet wind capacity targets. Accessing and scaling technologies quickly is crucial, given the focus on asset performance and efficiency.
Addressing Logistics and Power Needs
Despite priorities, securing power is a major challenge, with transport and logistics as top supply chain issues. Equipment turnaround time and ESG credentials highlight the need for capable suppliers and sustainable power generation.
The report reveals technical support is vital when sourcing power for offshore wind, followed by access to the latest technologies. While 46% use battery hybrid generation, cost remains a barrier to greener technologies. A gap in technical knowledge and experience impedes uptake in offshore wind projects.
Energising Europe’s Offshore Future
Issues in Race to Renewables require urgent attention, especially with Europe’s development surge. Addressing shortfalls is crucial to avoid project delays. The report emphasizes delivering equipment on time and planning for a site’s lifecycle. Construction, commissioning, and maintenance need power, depending on project specifics.
Project stakeholders should select experienced partners who understand offshore wind challenges. Effective collaboration ensures efficient and sustainable project completion, addressing immediate and long-term power needs.
For more information and to read Race to Renewables, visit the Aggreko website.
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