Opportunities for German SMEs
In recent years, the state of California has made remarkable progress in its commitment to combat climate change and transition towards a sustainable energy future. Setting an exemplary target of sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2045, the state has become a symbol of climate-conscious governance. As its renewable energy sector booms, California is now looking seaward to unlock the potential of offshore wind energy.
California’s Offshore Wind Goals
In May 2023, the California Energy Commission (CEC) made the decision to lease more than 373,000 acres to five companies for $757.1 million which could generate up to 5,000 MW. The areas have the potential to power more than 1.5 million homes. By 2045, the state aims to establish 25,000 MW of offshore wind capacity.
Offshore wind energy offers distinct advantages, including stronger and more consistent wind speeds compared to onshore locations, minimizing visual impacts, and the potential to scale up capacity to match the state’s electricity needs. Due to the ocean depth along the coast, as opposed to the east coast where fixed structures are required, floating offshore wind structures have emerged as the optimal solution. This presents major opportunities for small and medium-sized German enterprises to bring their expertise in offshore wind technology and project development to California.
The Door is Open for German Companies
Germany has been at the forefront of offshore wind, with over 7 gigawatts of capacity already installed in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. California can benefit from the decades of experience Germany has in areas like turbine engineering, grid integration, supply chain management, marine construction, maintenance, and project development.
With their proven track record and top-level technologies, German suppliers of floating offshore wind structures are well-positioned to contribute significantly to California’s clean energy transition. Beyond the structures themselves, German firms specializing in port infrastructure and grid solutions can also seize this opportunity to collaborate and implement innovative systems that optimize energy transmission and integration.
The Transatlantic Offshore Wind Forum
The Transatlantic Offshore Wind Forum presents a unique opportunity to facilitate international cooperation and propel the offshore wind industry forward. It will present discussions and foster meaningful outcomes during the conference, encouraging the development of sustainable and collaborative offshore wind initiatives between Germany and the US West Coast. The six German companies participating will be:
Megger Germany GmbH
Megger has been a leader in electrical testing and measurement globally for 130 years. From power generation to the power outlets in your home, Megger products cover almost every application within the electrical supply industry.
D.E.S. Offshore GmbH
DES as a company and network, operates in the areas of construction of future-oriented, digital, and regenerative infrastructure. The team provides on-site support to international customers in the areas of offshore wind energy, route construction (mast and concrete construction), 5G mobile phone masts as well as production supervision and project management.
REWITEC GmbH
Founded in 2003, REWITEC® has set itself the task of promoting the longevity and energy efficiency of systems, machinery, and gearboxes. With the development of nano- and micro-particle-based lubricant additives, the company focuses on the sustained running time of treated engines and gearboxes.
WINDnovation Engineering Solutions GmbH
WINDnovation Engineering Solutions GmbH is the leading rotor blade designer and wind turbine developer. Since being founded in 2007, they successfully developed specialized rotor blades for various terrains and wind conditions. The development of rotor blades expressly to fit specific local conditions allows them to always achieve optimum results for their customers.
Steel Inspect GmbH
Steel Inspect unites multiple years of expertise in project management for the construction of power plants of any kind worldwide with a holistic and proactive approach towards securing quality in large construction projects in power plant construction and the construction of offshore wind farms.
Skyborn Renewables GmbH
Skyborn Renewables (Skyborn) is an agile global offshore wind partner. Their focus lies on accelerating the energy transition with offshore wind solutions. With more than 20 years of experience, they represent an accomplished German offshore wind developer and operator.
https://www.skybornrenewables.com/
Ready to be a part of the change?
Interested in meeting the companies and getting first-hand industry insights from both sides of the Atlantic? Then make sure to secure your free ticket for our Transatlantic Offshore Wind Forum here.
