Norway opens two areas for combined 4.5 GW of offshore wind

The development means it will be possible to submit licence applications for offshore wind projects in Norwegian waters.

In accordance with the Norwegian Ocean Energy Act, areas must be opened by the government before licence applications can be submitted. A proposal to open areas and a draft regulation for consultation were proposed in 2019.

Norway’s Minister of Petroleum and Energy Tina Bru said, “Offshore wind power offers great opportunities for Norwegian businesses.

“In the immediate future the market will be in other countries, but if the cost of offshore wind continues to fall it could also become competitive in Norway.

“It is now time to prepare for future development by allocating space for offshore renewables,” she said.

Norway’s minister for climate and environment Sveinung Rotevatn said, “The world will need more renewable energy in the future.

“The world-leading offshore industry in Norway can be at the forefront of developing the technology that makes it possible to reach Norwegian and global climate targets.

“By investing in offshore wind, we can both create new jobs for the future and reduce emissions.”

“The ministry received many good suggestions and viewpoints in the consultation, and I have emphasised finding the right balance between accommodating this exciting new industry, and at the same time ensuring proper consideration of other interests in upcoming licensing processes,” Ms Bru said.

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