Energy Giants Unite for Belgian Offshore Wind Bid
Belgium, Friday, 12 July 2024.
Eneco, Ocean Winds, and Otary form a strategic consortium to compete in Belgium’s Princess Elisabeth Zone offshore wind tender. The partnership aims to leverage combined expertise for up to 3.5GW of new capacity, contributing significantly to Belgium’s 2030 renewable energy goals.
Details of the Consortium’s Ambitions
The newly formed consortium, consisting of Eneco, Ocean Winds, and Otary, is set to participate in the tenders for the Princess Elisabeth Zone (PEZ) in the Belgian North Sea. The PEZ is divided into three lots, including one for a 700 megawatt (MW) offshore wind farm and two for offshore wind farms ranging from 1,225 to 1,400 MW each[1]. The consortium plans to submit competitive bids for all these tenders, with the first expected in 2025[2].
Strategic Importance of the PEZ
The Princess Elisabeth Zone is a critical component of Belgium’s strategy to achieve around 5.8 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2030[3]. The zone’s development is expected to provide substantial contributions to Belgium’s renewable energy mix, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing the country’s climate goals.
Eneco’s Role and Contributions
Eneco, a leading player in the sustainable energy sector, boasts over 2,500 MW of renewable production capacity, including more than 500 MW of wind energy capacity in Belgium alone[4]. Miguel de Schaetzen, CEO of Eneco Wind Belgium, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering 100% locally produced green electricity, which aligns with their One Planet Plan aiming for climate neutrality by 2035[5].
Ocean Winds’ Expertise
Ocean Winds, a joint venture between ENGIE and EDP Renewables, is a prominent leader in the offshore wind industry. With 1.5 GW of operational offshore wind energy and an additional 2 GW currently under construction, the company brings significant expertise and experience to the consortium[6]. Wouter Vandekerkhove, Country Manager for Ocean Winds in Belgium and the Netherlands, highlighted the successful operation of the SeaMade wind farm as a testament to their capabilities[7].
Otary’s Local Impact
Otary, a Belgian company, has an impressive portfolio of 800 MW of operational renewable offshore energy projects within the country[8]. Mathias Verkest, CEO of Otary, expressed the company’s ambition to remain at the forefront of Belgium’s energy transition, leveraging their local expertise and long-standing industry presence[9].
Implications for Belgium’s Energy Transition
The consortium’s bid for the PEZ offshore wind concessions represents a significant step towards Belgium’s energy transition goals. By combining international expertise with local knowledge, Eneco, Ocean Winds, and Otary aim to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region. As Belgium moves towards its 2030 targets, the successful development of the PEZ will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices.
Bronnen
- news.eneco.be
- sg.finance.yahoo.com
- marketnews.com
- focus-wtv.be
- www.marinelink.com
- www.nortonrosefulbright.com