German wind energy association calls for investments in port expansion
The German Offshore Wind Energy Association (BWO) is appealing to the members of the German Bundestag to use the funds from the planned special fund of €500 billion (US$540 billion) specifically for an urgently needed port expansion in Germany.
The list of investment areas under consideration includes, among others, energy infrastructure and transport infrastructure, which the BWO claims are essential elements for the expansion of offshore wind energy.
"Ports play a central role in both the energy transition and security policy," said Stefan Thimm, BWO Managing Director. "Their heavy-duty areas can be used both for the expansion of offshore wind energy and for military purposes. Unfortunately, such areas are still too scarce in Germany.
"Such expansion would improve the location conditions for the German offshore wind industry and at the same time contribute to strengthening security policy."
The BWO said the port of Esbjerg in Denmark could serve as a model, as it has expanded its capacity for both offshore wind development and military use through targeted investments. The European Investment Bank recently provided €115 million (US$125 million) to optimise the infrastructure for dual use.
"A similar strategic approach is also necessary for Germany, added Thimm. "I welcome the fact that the CDU/CSU and SPD agreed to use all the potential of renewables even before the start of their coalition negotiations.
"However, the targets for the expansion of offshore wind energy that have already been set by law require more efficient port infrastructure that enables the transport and installation of new systems. At the same time, military actors also benefit from more robust port facilities."
Thimm said the port expansion thus fits perfectly into the investment priorities sought by parliamentarians to strengthen the strategic resilience of Germany and Europe.
The BWO said additional funds for port expansion can also be provided from the proceeds of offshore wind auctions. These also provide a source of financing to strengthen maritime infrastructure in the long term and support the industry's expansion goals.
"Without a clear strategy for providing sufficient funds, the future federal government would jeopardise the timely expansion of offshore wind energy," said Thimm. "I am pleased that the Union faction supported the demand of the port industry and the states last year to increase port burden equalisation from the current €38 million (US$41 million) to at least €400 million (US$440 million) per year."
