Offshore wind energy studies the surveys will be carried out in Zones 3 and 4 of the German EEZ to analyze the seabed and subsoil of future offshore sites. The German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) has launched a tender for preliminary geophysical surveys related to wind energy development in the North Sea.
The work will focus on Zones 3 and 4 of Germany’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the program, scheduled for 2027 and 2028, will provide detailed information on the characteristics of the seabed and subsoil. The data collected will serve as a technical basis for the development of future offshore wind farms within Germany’s Site Development Plan (FEP).
Offshore wind energy studies will analyze the seabed
Specifically, the campaign includes measurements using a multibeam echosounder with full coverage and backscatter data. This method allows for the characterization of the surface of the seabed and obtain information about their properties. In addition, the work will include side-scan sonar along with scoop sampling and underwater video. These methods will allow for direct verification of the features detected during the geophysical surveys.
Studies using magnetometers and sediment echosounders are also planned, along with targeted inspections using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to verify objects located during the surveys. In this way, BSH aims to obtain a preliminary technical characterization of the sites before proceeding with subsequent phases of offshore wind energy development.
The tender covers work until 2030
Furthermore, the contract includes an option to run similar campaigns during 2029 and 2030 in other areas of the German EEZ North Sea. The implementation of these additional works will depend on the requirements arising from Germany’s Offshore Wind Energy Act (WindSeeG) and the FEP itself. Interested companies may submit their applications to participate in the tender until September 29, 2026.
Germany studies areas far from the North Sea
Furthermore, the areas included are among the furthest from the coast within the German EEZ. Zone 3 comprises the areas identified from N-9 to N-13. Meanwhile, sectors N-14 to N-20 are distributed between Zones 4 and 5 and are designated as areas for potential future development offshore wind energy, this location makes the collection of data from the seabed and subsoil a relevant step in understanding the physical conditions of future sites.
BSH updates Germany’s offshore wind plan
Meanwhile, BSH continues to update the Site Development Plan (SDP) and the planned schedule for several designated offshore wind energy areas. In June 2026, the agency published a draft amendment that includes changes related to sites N-10.1, N-10.2, N-12.4, N-12.5, N-13.1, and N-13.2. The Site Development Plan amendment is expected to be finalized during the third quarter of 2026. The document will serve as a reference for ordering the development of offshore areas and defining the next planning stages in the North Sea.
Source: Offshore Energy
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