Nordlicht, Germany’s largest offshore wind project, cleared for take-off

The decision enabling the developer to press ahead with the project comes after a permit issued by the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) became irrevocable. Vattenfall took an FID for the first stage of the project, Nordlicht I, in March 2025. At the same time, it also took a conditional FID for Nordlicht II, pending the receipt of the permit for the project from the BSH.

“Today’s irrevocable permit removes that condition and confirms full FID for the entire cluster,” said Vattenfall, noting that, in October 2025, it secured planning approval for Nordlicht II from the BSH, providing the statutory basis for construction. 

With planning approval and all of the permits required now in hand, the company has taken an FID for the entire offshore wind cluster, comprising Nordlicht I and Nordlicht II. 

Construction of the windfarms is due to get underway later in 2026. Once completed, Nordlicht I and II will be Germany’s largest offshore wind projects, with a combined capacity of 1.6 GW.

Monopile installation for Nordlicht I is due to start in the third quarter of 2026, with installation for Nordlicht II to follow approximately one year later. Both windfarms are due to be operational in 2028.

Vattenfall senior vice president business area wind Catrin Jung said the permit and FID are defining moments for Nordlicht. “This project is about more than building offshore wind capacity,” she said. “It is about strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

“Generating clean electricity locally, we help create a more resilient energy system. Together with our partners, we’re committed to delivering a project that will power homes and industries with fossil-free energy for decades to come.”

As part of Vattenfall’s sustainability efforts, both windfarms will have turbine towers partially made with low-emissions steel, reducing their overall carbon footprint by 16%.