Industry and unions urge Germany to restart offshore wind auctions
German
industry representatives and trade unions have called on the federal government
to launch new offshore wind tenders this year, warning that delays are
creating uncertainty for developers, manufacturers and supply chains.
The German Wind Energy Association (BWE) and IG Metall said recent developments,
including the potential return of previously awarded offshore wind areas,
have highlighted weaknesses in the current auction system and raised concerns
about future project delivery.
BWE president Bärbel Heidebroek said the situation demonstrates that the
existing model does not provide sufficient investment certainty. She warned
that delays to offshore wind expansion could affect Germany's climate goals,
energy security and industrial competitiveness.
IG Metall warns of “serious consequences for industry and employment".
District manager Daniel Friedrich called on the government to provide clear
framework conditions and establish a legally robust process for transferring
project areas if developers decide not to proceed.
The organisations are urging policymakers to work with industry on a revised
auction design and launch fresh tenders before the end of the year, arguing
that a stable project pipeline is essential to support investment and long-term
growth in Germany's offshore wind sector.
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