excellent conditions
The offshore wind initiative is moving forward and has the potential to become an important part of the energy mix in Norway in the future. Norway has some of the world's best and most stable wind resources, a long coastline, and a competent and experienced offshore industry. Therefore, we have excellent conditions to achieve the goal of allocating areas for 30GW of offshore wind production by 2040, and thus take a leading position in a growing offshore wind market, which could potentially create tens of thousands of new jobs.
tHE FIRST AREAS FOR OFFSHORE WIND
In 2020, Utsira Nord and Sørlige Nordsjø II were opened as the first two areas for renewable energy production at sea on the Norwegian continental shelf. The areas were designated due to their favourable wind conditions and potential for large-scale offshore wind development, and today they have a combined capacity of 4.5GW. The government will consider whether there is a basis for increasing land use in both areas.
The long-term commitment to offshore wind is dependent on the availability of land. Therefore, the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) has been tasked with identifying new sea areas suitable for renewable energy production at sea. The next tender round is expected to take place in 2025.
oUR WORK
We engage in a variety of issues that are central to realizing the offshore wind potential in Norway, and assist developers, investors, banks, lenders, and owners with everything from concessions and contract management to transactions and structuring. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to know more about how Thommessen works with offshore wind and the opportunities in the offshore wind market.
