RWE and the Swedish Port of Karlshamn have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore whether the latter could be a suitable harbour for the logistics, installation, operations and maintenance activities relating to the developer’s planned offshore wind projects in the Baltic Sea.
In a first step, the partners will map the requirements and necessary build outs and investments to facilitate the scaling-up of the port’s capacity.
An early implementation of harbour capacity will ensure Sweden is well placed to maximise the potential of the offshore wind industry, said RWE.
The collaboration demonstrates a clear commitment to share knowledge and expertise, in support of broader industrial growth in Sweden, it added.
“Port capacity and a sustainable supply chain industry are key to the deployment of offshore wind projects,” said vice president of offshore development Nordics at RWE Offshore Wind Matilda Machacek.
“A new offshore wind farm has the potential to transform a nearby harbour into a dynamic hub that catalyses significantly growth, infrastructure, jobs and economic benefits for the region.
“That is why we are looking forward to collaborating with Port of Karlshamn to evaluate their potential as future offshore wind hub.”
Project lead at RWE Renewables Sweden Anton Andersson said: “Our Karehamn offshore wind farm is a great example also for harbour development. It has been reliably generating green electricity for thousands of Swedish homes for more than a decade.
“Thanks to the wind farm the old fishing harbour has been revitalised. Based on this success RWE plans to build more offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea.”
Port of Karlshamn chief executive Caroline Säfström added: “Port of Karlshamn is proud that RWE, one of the world’s leading offshore wind companies, is supporting us in our plans to become a hub for offshore wind.
“With its natural deep harbour and large shipyard, Port of Karlshamn is well positioned to meet the future needs of the offshore wind industry in the Baltic Sea.
“We recognise the demand for port capacity related to offshore wind energy, including after-sales services such as maintenance and operations centres.
“Expanding the port’s product portfolio in this direction is a natural step given our previous experience with wind energy projects and logistics.
“By establishing itself as a hub for offshore wind energy, Port of Karlshamn is also creating employment opportunities for the region and promoting business opportunities for local companies and suppliers, thus contributing to the economic development of the area and strengthening the local economy.”