Wind Energy – Strategic Consortium
Three prominent energy companies, Eneco, Ocean Winds (the joint venture between EDP Renewables and ENGIE dedicated to offshore wind energy) and Otary, announced the formation of a strategic partnership (subject to all required regulatory/competition approvals) to jointly compete in the tender for the offshore wind Princess Elisabeth concessions in Belgium.
Offshore wind energy is a cornerstone of the Belgian energy transition, as it offers one of the most cost-effective, secure and reliable ways to produce energy. Already partners in the country with the SeaMade offshore wind farm, successfully operating since end of 2020, the consortium brings together unparalleled expertise and experience in generating clean energy from offshore wind, while unlocking local opportunities and creating local jobs.
The consortium was formed to compete in the upcoming tenders for the Princess Elisabeth Zone (PEZ), that will be split into three lots: one for the development of a 700 MW offshore wind farm and two lots for the development of offshore wind farms each ranging from 1,225 to 1,400 MW.
All offshore wind farms are located in areas that will allow for bottom-fixed technology. The consortium plans to participate in each of the upcoming tenders for PEZ, the first one expected for 2025.
Combining their strengths to participate in these tenders will allow Ocean Winds, Otary and Eneco to submit the most competitive bid and deliver state-of-the-art offshore wind farms and therefore increase their contribution to Belgium’s energy transition.
Preparatory work is already underway, including site assessments by the government and the construction of Princess Elisabeth Island for the offshore grid connection by Elia.
