Berlin has taken the first steps to establish an offshore wind auction for the production of green hydrogen.
The government published a key ordinance that enters force today, covering the exclusive economic zone and criteria for the auctions.
Federal energy ministry BMWi said a round could be held as early as next year.
Although technically the round is technology-neutral, officials said it “makes sense” for wind to be the generation technology.
As a first step, successful bidders will be entitled to apply for a planning approval procedure for the respective site.
As a second step, they can apply for funding. For this purpose, the German Federal government has earmarked €50 million from 2022 in the context of the energy and climate package.
“Offshore production of green hydrogen is a forward-looking issue with great potential for innovation. Offshore hydrogen production can make a considerable contribution to the decarbonisation of industry in Germany,” said Energy Minister Peter Altmaier (pictured).
Industry body BWO welcomed the development but said the North Sea sites designated so far are too small.
“So it quickly needs more space, sensible connection concepts and, above all, a regulatory framework for the approval of the electrolysers – time is known to be short,” said managing director Stefan Thimm.