Germany’s federal network agency BNetzA is to allow onshore wind developers that were successful in the country’s previous auctions to delay project implementation because of the spread of the coronavirus.
BNetzA said that an extension to the implementation period for projects would be granted, which also includes biomass developments.
Under auction rules, penalties normally apply to developers if they do not grid connect successful projects by a certain date.
The agency also plans to go-ahead with the planned auctions for this year, but will not publicly announce the winners.
This is so that project deadlines do not come into force immediately.
BNetzA said public announcements of winners will only be made “after the situation (with the coronavirus) has calmed down”.
Successful bidders will receive a written assurance that they will be awarded a contract, the agency said.
It added: “The coronavirus has created an exceptional situation. This applies to current tenders that have already been carried out as well as all upcoming tenders
“Both companies that have already been awarded a contract and potential new bidders are affected.
“Supply chains are interrupted, the implementation of many projects is in question.”
VDMA Power Systems managing director Matthias Zelinger said: “It is good to see that pragmatic acts by the authorities and declarations of intent go well together here.”