OMNI Features｜No Bids in German Offshore Wind Auction for First Time

Germany's latest offshore wind auction closed without any bids, the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) confirmed, marking the first such outcome in the country's history, according to the energy industry association BDEW. Association head Kerstin Andreae said the absence of bids, along with waning interest in the upcoming June 2025 tender, reflects growing risks for developers.

BDEW cited rising project and financing costs driven by geopolitical tensions, supply chain bottlenecks, and volatile electricity market prices and volumes. Andreae also warned that placing wind farms too close together could cause shadowing effects that cut output, urging regulatory reforms and changes to auction design to revive participation.

Offshore wind is central to Germany's renewable energy strategy, aiming for 30 GW capacity by 2031, a year later than planned. As of mid-2025, the number of turbines connected to the grid remains at 1,639, and the sector is pressing for auction system reforms after years of competitive bids, including several at zero state support.

Reference: Clean Energy Wire