Expansion of offshore wind energy in Germany: key measures for future development

Germany aims to expand its offshore wind capacity from approximately 9 GW at the end of 2024 to at least 70 GW by 2045. This expansion will make offshore wind a significant contributor to the country's climate-neutral electricity generation, covering around 25% of Germany’s gross electricity production.

By the mid-2030s, this expansion is expected to attract over €10 billion in private investment annually in the offshore wind supply chain, alongside similar levels of investment in grid infrastructure. This economic impact will be felt across Germany, from the south to the northern coasts, and in key industrial and technology regions.

To fully harness these opportunities and address emerging challenges, political commitment and strategic policy measures from the new German government are essential. The Stiftung Offshore-Windenergie and WAB e.V., the Renewable Energy Cluster Hamburg (Förderverein EEHH e.V.), and WindEnergy Network (WEN) have identified 13 priority areas for action:

1. Political stability and reliable annual auction targets for cost-efficient expansion.
2. Renewable energy targets aligned with electricity market design.
3. Reform of offshore wind auction design to improve efficiency.
4. Coordinated grid expansion to match wind power growth.
5. Protection of critical offshore energy infrastructure as a priority.
6. Regulations for offshore rescue infrastructure in remote areas.
7. Efficient spatial planning with energy yield targets and international cooperation with Denmark and the Netherlands.
8. Integration of offshore wind into broader policy areas for a holistic investment and financing strategy.
9. Expansion of necessary logistics infrastructure to support wind energy development.
10. Recognition of offshore wind and maritime industry as a nationwide economic priority.
11. Encouragement of innovation and increased commitment to marine research.
12. Clear responsibilities and regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone.
13. Measures to address demographic challenges and use renewable energy as an economic driver for integration.

The new government is urged to actively engage with the industry and implement effective solutions to support offshore wind expansion.