Offshore wind energy

There are wind farms in the North Sea that generate sustainable electricity. But what exactly does offshore wind energy yield? What is the impact and what are the developments of this energy source? How do we try to limit the negative impact as much as possible? And why are offshore wind farms indispensable for making the Netherlands more sustainable? 

Offshore wind energy is one of the most important pillars of climate policy in the Netherlands. That is why we are making plans for new offshore wind farms and for how we bring the electricity generated offshore to the mainland. It is indispensable when it comes to achieving a climate-neutral energy supply by 2050. 

What are we currently working on:  

For the construction and operation of an offshore wind farm, you need to apply for a permit. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) organises a 'tender' to issue a permit. But how exactly does such a tender work? Which wind farms can you apply for a permit now or in the near future? 

In the Dutch North Sea, the Government designates areas where wind farms will be built. Preparation for issuing a permit takes a number of years. See what research is being done into suitable sites and the effects of wind farms on nature. Find out which wind farm sites may be subject to a permit tender in the future too.

Offshore wind farms are built at various locations in the Dutch North Sea. These wind farms are licensed by the Dutch Government.  

After receiving the permit, the developer starts the construction of the offshore wind farm. Once completed and connected to the offshore grid, it can generate electricity and transport it to land. Currently, wind farm developers are working on construction of the following:  

Would you like to join in the discussion and provide feedback on a wind farm in the North Sea, a grid connection or Wind Farm Site Decision? Then you can contact our Energy Projects Office (Bureau Energieprojecten - Dutch only). See which wind energy projects you can now respond to and how previous consultation procedures went. 

The North Sea also offers space for new ideas and innovations. For example, we work with various parties to make smart use of the North Sea. We are also working on the development of offshore hydrogen production.  

Would you like to know more about offshore wind energy? For example, on how a wind farm works? For this you can visit our public website. Or see what laws and regulations apply to wind farms in the North Sea.