The offshore wind farm Nordseecluster, developed by RWE and Norges Bank Investment Management off the coast of Germany, reached a new milestone by feeding electricity into the German power grid for the first time, just weeks after completing the installation of its first wind turbine.
The start of the power supply marks the beginning of the commissioning phase for the largest offshore wind project currently under construction by RWE, with a total planned capacity of 1.6 gigawatts (GW) once its two development stages are completed.
Nordseecluster A moves toward commercial operation
The first phase of the project, Nordseecluster A, involves the installation of 44 wind turbines with a combined capacity of 660 megawatts (MW) and is expected to be fully connected to the grid by early 2027.
The energy produced by the turbines is transported to two independent offshore substations, where the voltage is stepped up for transmission to the grid operator’s converter station before reaching the onshore power system. This configuration accounts for the existence of two independent connection points designed to improve supply reliability.
Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, highlighted that the project is progressing according to the planned schedule and noted that its entry into operation will contribute to both Germany’s energy security and the decarbonization of the electrical system.
The second phase will add another 900 MW
Development will continue with Nordseecluster B, which will incorporate an additional 900 MW through the installation of 60 Vestas wind turbines.
Manufacturing of several components is already underway, while foundation installation will begin next year. Turbine placement is scheduled for 2028, and the start of commercial operation is expected by early 2029.
Once completed, the complex will generate approximately 6.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable electricity per year, a volume sufficient to supply a significant portion of industrial energy demand and support RWE customers’ decarbonization programs.
A strategic project for the European energy transition
Nordseecluster is jointly developed by RWE, with a 51% stake, and Norges Bank Investment Management, which owns the remaining 49%. RWE will be responsible for the construction, operation, and management of the wind farm throughout its entire life cycle.
The gradual entry into service of the project reinforces the German strategy for offshore wind energy expansion, considered one of the pillars for reducing emissions in the power sector and strengthening the country’s energy independence.
SOURCE and photo: https://www.rwe.com/
