The wind farms will connect to the German electricity grid, but the power lines will also enable electricity exchanges with neighbouring countries such as Denmark and the Netherlands.
A study commissioned by the ministry to examine the overall benefits of an international power grid in the North Sea found that networking reduces greenhouse gas emissions, increases energy security, uses available space more efficiently and saves considerable costs.
The networking plans developed by the three transmission system operators (TSOs) will be incorporated into official German and European planning processes, the ministry said. The proposals will form the basis for an international offshore grid in the North Sea, it added.
Robert Habeck, Germany’s economic affairs and climate protection minister, said increased networking with neighbouring countries would benefit the energy transition and strengthen Germany’s security of supply.
“Wind energy at sea will play a crucial role in the climate-neutral energy system,” he added.
In January, European wind partners launched the €69 million InterOpera research project to accelerate the use of transmission systems that enable offshore wind turbines to be used as interconnectors as well as generators.
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