Denmark is significantly ramping up its ambitions in offshore wind and green hydrogen, unveiling a series of bold initiatives aimed at securing a fully renewable electricity supply and solidifying its position as a green energy powerhouse. Facing rising costs and supply chain pressures in the offshore wind sector, the Danish government is taking decisive action to stimulate growth and ensure the country remains at the forefront of the energy transition.
Key among the new measures is a planned tender for 2-3 GW of new offshore wind capacity in 2025, with a bidding deadline expected in spring 2026. This move follows the cancellation of a previous 3GW tender in internal Danish waters, replaced by a more competitive framework designed to attract greater investment. Recognising the challenges facing the industry, the government is prepared to offer state support and introduce more flexible conditions for bidders, though the specifics are still subject to parliamentary discussions. This proactive approach underscores Denmark’s commitment to rapidly expanding its offshore wind capacity, a crucial component of its target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030.
“Denmark and Europe need green electricity and energy, but we are in a difficult situation where we won’t see more offshore wind unless we act swiftly,” stated Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy, and Utilities. “That is why the government is now working to create the best possible conditions for expanding offshore wind, ensuring that we can cover our own electricity consumption with renewable power while contributing to a greener and more secure Europe.”
Beyond wind power, Denmark is also making significant strides in developing its green hydrogen infrastructure. A multi-billion DKK investment will support the construction of a hydrogen pipeline from Esbjerg to the German border, slated for completion by the end of 2030. This pipeline is a crucial step towards establishing a Danish-German energy corridor, enabling the export of domestically produced green hydrogen to Germany, where it is expected to play a vital role in decarbonising industries. To accelerate project development, the government is proposing to lower the booking requirement for hydrogen transport capacity, allowing the project to proceed based on the needs of a single large-scale hydrogen producer.
“Denmark can and must play a role in kickstarting Europe’s green hydrogen production,” said Minister Aagaard. “At the same time, this represents a significant business opportunity for Denmark. That is why we are increasing financial support to make hydrogen exports to Germany a reality by 2030… This is the starting point, not the final destination.”
While the initial focus is on the Esbjerg-Germany connection, the government has reiterated its long-term ambition to develop a full-scale hydrogen backbone across Jutland, with future expansions planned northward and eastward. These ambitious plans highlight Denmark’s vision of becoming a central hub for green hydrogen production and distribution in Europe.
The future of the Energy Island Bornholm project, a potentially significant contributor to Denmark’s offshore wind capacity, remains uncertain. The government has indicated that further progress hinges on securing a new agreement with Germany, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in achieving shared climate goals. Discussions will resume once a new German government is in place.
source:https://stateofgreen.com/
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