The ambitious goals for expanding wind energy capacity in the Baltic Sea are set to drive Germany’s transition to renewable energy sources. However, they come with a set of complex challenges. As transmission system operator 50Hertz strives to facilitate this transition, experts weigh the advantages and disadvantages of harnessing the Baltic Sea’s wind energy potential.
For the German Baltic Sea alone, plans call for a remarkable increase in connected wind energy capacity of up to five gigawatts within the next decade. According to 50Hertz spokesman Volker Gustedt, this target represents more than triple the current capacity and is, undoubtedly, a colossal challenge.
Gustedt pointed out that achieving this goal requires addressing various critical factors, including supply chain management, the availability of ships, interest rates, cost considerations, and access to raw materials. Additionally, he raised concerns about whether Germany will have the shipyards capable of constructing the large converter platforms required for offshore wind farms in the future.
The ongoing discussion regarding the Rostock shipyard exemplifies this challenge. While Schwerin aims to use the vacant land to build converter platforms, security concerns the German Defense Ministry voiced due to the nearby naval arsenal have raised questions. Most of these platforms are sourced from southern Europe or Asia, resulting in logistical and cost inefficiencies. Building them locally would be more favorable.
In contrast, the North Sea offers more space for expansion but comes with its own set of challenges. The North Sea countries are collectively planning to have over 120 gigawatts of wind energy capacity by 2030, compared to the Baltic Sea countries’ target of more than 20 gigawatts.
The Baltic Sea has a smaller Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in Germany compared to the North Sea, and it faces competition from various sectors, including shipping, fishing, and the German armed forces. Moreover, the seabed composition varies from muddy to rocky in different areas, adding complexity to offshore installations.
However, the Baltic Sea has its unique advantages. Its shorter distances enable quicker access to wind farm platforms for maintenance purposes, as opposed to the North Sea, where helicopters are often necessary. Additionally, the North Sea’s inclement weather can further complicate operations.
According to the Offshore Wind Energy Foundation, approximately 1.3 gigawatts of capacity are currently installed in the German Baltic Sea, compared to 7.1 gigawatts in the North Sea. Notable projects in the Baltic Sea include the Arcadis Ost 1 wind farm and the upcoming Baltic Eagle wind farm off the island of Rügen.
50Hertz’s Volker Gustedt revealed that plans are underway for another substantial wind farm with a capacity exceeding 900 megawatts off Darß and a 300-megawatt site northeast of Rügen. Additionally, Total Energies recently secured a substantial area in the German Baltic Sea, investing two billion euros with a planned capacity of up to two gigawatts.
Expanding the Baltic Sea’s wind energy capacity is not limited to Germany alone. Collaborations with Denmark to connect wind farms off Bornholm and a letter of intent to link a wind farm off Estonia through a more than 700-kilometer-long submarine cable is on the horizon. This interconnection would facilitate the export of surplus electricity to Germany, given Estonia’s lower demand.
However, the transition to renewable energy also demands significant onshore infrastructure development. New substations are planned near Lubmin and in the direction of Rostock, underscoring the comprehensive nature of this endeavor.
The ambitious expansion of wind energy capacity in the Baltic Sea is crucial to achieving Germany’s energy transition goals. Despite the formidable challenges posed by supply chains, shipbuilding capabilities, and competition, the advantages of proximity, accessibility, and local economic development are compelling reasons to harness the Baltic Sea’s wind energy potential. As these projects continue to evolve, they represent a beacon of hope for a more sustainable and green energy future.
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