The development of offshore grid is a major factor in the success of the energy transition in Europe when several thousand TWh of fossil energy must be replaced with renewable energy. In order to achieve the ambitious European climate targets, close collaboration between the European Transmission System Operators is essential.
In May 2022 the Norwegian Government announced its ambition of awarding areas for 30 GW offshore wind capacity by 2040. The Norwegian Government has assigned Statnett the roles as system operator and planning responsible for the Norwegian offshore grid. In pursuance of this, Statnett will handle discussions, concept studies and possible technology development initiatives with other nations TSOs regarding offshore grids.
The French Energy and Climate Strategy sets the target of meeting 18 GW of offshore installed capacity by 2035 and at least 45 GW by 2050. RTE is in charge of connecting all the French wind farms to the grid. Already 4 projects have been commissioned while 12 other projects are at different stages of development.