Sif has been granted ‘Strategic Project’ status by the European Commission and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy for offshore wind foundation production under the Net-Zero Industry Act.
The company said it is one of the first two Dutch companies included in a group of industrial projects considered essential for accelerating the energy transition and strengthening European manufacturing.
The European Commission noted the designation supports efforts to safeguard and scale up production capacity for key offshore wind components in Europe.
The status gives priority in permitting and financing to support faster deployment of offshore wind and strengthen the European industrial base.
“It confirms the crucial role that Sif plays in the supply chain of offshore wind energy and thus in the Dutch and European energy transition. It once again proves that offshore wind is one of the most important and fastest opportunities to become energy independent and to effectively contribute to the energy transition.” said Fred van Beers, chief executive of Sif.
“The concrete effect of this on the utilization of our factory cannot yet be indicated at this time, but it strengthens confidence in stability and certainty for the future.”
“These are exactly the projects we need to make our industry more sustainable. They show that the Netherlands can take the lead in clean technology and at the same time strengthen our position in Europe.” said Stientje van Veldhoven, minister of climate and green growth.
The European Union aims to improve access to a safe and sustainable supply of net-zero technologies while scaling up production capacity and supply chains under the regulation.
The designation also enables faster permitting, priority administrative procedures and potential access to financing support including through the European Investment Bank.