TotalEnergies, through its stake in North Sea OFW One GmbH, has been awarded maritime concession N-9.4 in the North Sea by the German Federal Network Agency, located approximately 150 kilometres northwest of the German island of Heligoland. This concession covers approximately 141 square kilometres and is set to develop a total offshore wind power generation capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW). The initial concession period is 25 years, with a potential extension of up to 35 years. This award comes amid efforts to bolster Germany’s offshore energy capacities.
Infrastructure optimisation
The new N-9.4 site is in immediate proximity to maritime concessions N-9.1 and N-9.2, jointly operated by TotalEnergies and German energy provider RWE AG. According to TotalEnergies, this proximity will facilitate the exploitation of operational and logistical synergies. Infrastructure sharing is expected to significantly optimise construction and operating costs.
However, the detailed operational schedule for this new project depends on timelines set by German transmission system operators (TSOs). In response to these extended timelines, TotalEnergies announced it has initiated a strategic review of its various offshore wind concessions secured since 2023. The aim is to engage in dialogue with German authorities to explore optimal development conditions for these sites.
Specific financial commitments
Additionally, the concession allocation involves precise financial commitments. Offshore Wind One GmbH has agreed to pay €18 million to the German federal government in 2026, dedicated to marine conservation and promoting sustainable fishing practices. An additional annual fee of €8.1 million will be paid to the electricity grid operator for 20 consecutive years following the commissioning of the wind site.
This concession forms an integral part of TotalEnergies’ strategy to strengthen its offshore energy portfolio in Europe, particularly in the wind sector. It directly responds to Germany’s policy to significantly increase renewable energy share in its national electricity mix, aligning with its European and international commitments.
Development prospects in Germany
In addition to its existing activities, TotalEnergies thus consolidates its strategic presence in the German offshore wind sector, benefiting from the country’s ambitious renewable energy capacity plans. According to the latest data from the German Federal Network Agency, Germany aims to significantly expand its installed offshore wind capacity over the coming years, representing significant opportunities for major international energy companies like TotalEnergies.
However, developments in regulatory timelines and conditions remain critical for project realisation. Outcomes of negotiations between energy companies and German authorities will thus be closely monitored across the sector.
