Germany Revises Offshore Wind Targets Amid Emerging Challenges and Strategic Shifts

Operational Challenges Impacting Offshore Wind Targets
Germany is reconsidering its ambitious offshore wind energy target of 70GW by 2045 due to operational challenges, particularly the “wake” effects that hinder turbine efficiency. These effects occur when turbines disrupt the wind, creating turbulent air behind them and significantly reducing their operational hours. According to Stefan Thimm, managing director of the Bundesverband der Windparkbetreiber Offshore (BWO), this issue has already impacted the last offshore wind tender, which saw minimal activity and lower-than-expected prices. These signs of oversaturation in designated wind zones are forcing Germany to rethink its offshore wind development strategy.

Expanding Offshore Wind Capacity through Collaboration with Denmark
To overcome the spatial constraints in its own waters, Germany is exploring the possibility of building offshore wind farms in Denmark’s exclusive economic zone. With Denmark’s energy demand being only 5% of Germany’s, this cooperation could help Germany expand its offshore wind capacity and meet its renewable energy targets. Thimm has suggested a strategic agreement with Denmark to use its waters for German wind projects, a move that could reduce the impact of wake effects and enhance Germany’s ability to scale its renewable energy infrastructure.

Revised Policy and Tendering Approaches to Improve Efficiency
Alongside these operational and spatial challenges, there is a growing call to revise Germany’s offshore wind energy tendering process. Ministers from Germany’s North Sea states have proposed shifting from capacity-based tenders to those focused on actual electricity generation. This new approach would better address system stability and integrate excess solar power, which could improve the overall efficiency of Germany’s renewable energy grid. According to Olaf Lies, Economy Minister of Lower Saxony, such a shift is necessary to ensure that the country’s energy transition can meet both immediate and long-term needs.

Political Shifts Could Influence Future Energy Strategy
As Germany moves toward the February 2025 federal elections, potential political changes could further reshape the country’s renewable energy policy. The CDU/CSU party, which may emerge as the next ruling party, has expressed skepticism about the current government’s ambitious climate targets and its interventionist approach to renewable energy. These potential shifts could lead to further revisions of Germany’s offshore wind strategy and broader renewable energy goals.