SSE Renewables and APG have formed a consortium to participate in the upcoming 4GW IJmuiden Ver offshore wind farm zone tenders.
The two companies, acting on behalf of Dutch pension fund ABP, aim to develop a large-scale offshore wind energy project in the Dutch North Sea.
The IJmuiden Ver tenders are for permits to develop the four individual 1GW sites within the IJmuiden Ver Zone located approximately 62km off the Dutch coast.
The bids will have a clear focus on ecological protection and enhancement in the North Sea as well as on optimal integration into the Dutch energy system.
Circularity and International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC) are key priorities for the Dutch government. The criteria and other elements of the procedures are expected to be published early this year, with the application window expected to be opened in the final quarter.
ABP previously established the ‘Noordzeker coalition’ to contribute to the Dutch government’s plans to generate approximately 21GW of energy – approximately 75% of current electricity consumption – from offshore wind by 2030.
Stephen Wheeler, Managing Director at SSE Renewables, said: “I am delighted that we are partnering with APG through Noordzeker, on the upcoming IJmuiden Ver offshore wind farm zone tenders, given their significant operating experience and wider investments in the Netherlands.
“Both partners are experienced innovators and committed to ensuring that offshore wind is developed in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.”
Peter Branner, APG Chief Investment Officer, said: “We are very excited to partner with SSE Renewables for the IJmuiden Ver tenders. Their experience and expertise in participating in these bids, constructing the assets and operating a very sizeable, worldwide portfolio of offshore wind farms make them the ideal partner for APG.
“The consortium partners are committed to invest a large amount of capital to support the Dutch energy transition, with particular focus on ecological innovation and integration into the broader energy system. The partnership is the first step of many in realizing ABP’s ambitions through its Noordzeker initiative.”