DHL Group has taken a significant stride towards its net-zero emissions goal by signing a ten-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Energie Baden-Württemberg (EnBW). Starting in 2026, the logistics behemoth will procure 80 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity annually from the He Dreiht offshore wind farm, nestled in the German North Sea. This deal is not just a commercial transaction; it’s a bold statement in the ongoing energy transition narrative.
He Dreiht, with its 960MW installed capacity, is set to power approximately 1.1 million households. For DHL, this translates to meeting 16% of its current yearly electricity needs in Germany. The wind farm, slated for completion in spring 2026, is a testament to Europe’s growing offshore wind ambitions. It’s one of the first large-scale projects in the region to be constructed without government subsidies, signaling a shift towards more commercially viable renewable energy projects.
DHL Group’s chief procurement officer, Anna Spinelli, underscored the strategic importance of this deal. “The long-term agreement with our energy partner ensures a reliable supply of electricity from renewable sources for our operations and contributes to supporting the energy transition,” she stated. This isn’t just about powering DHL’s operations; it’s about fostering a sustainable ecosystem. By proactively engaging with suppliers like EnBW, DHL is setting a precedent for how corporations can drive the energy transition.
EnBW, on its part, is doubling down on its commitment to renewable energy. The He Dreiht project will double the company’s renewable energy generation capacity in the North Sea, following the successful commissioning of the EnBW Hohe See and Albatros wind farms. Matthias Obert, executive director trading at EnBW, expressed delight in supporting DHL’s journey towards zero-emission logistics. “This partnership underscores our position as a major provider of sustainable energy across Europe,” he said.
The He Dreiht wind farm will use 64 Vestas V236-15 turbines, each delivering 15MW of power. This marks the first commercial use of these turbines, pushing the boundaries of offshore wind technology. The project’s scale and ambition are a clear indication of the sector’s trajectory. As more corporations follow DHL’s lead, the demand for renewable energy will surge, driving innovation and investment in the sector.
This deal also raises questions about the future of corporate energy procurement. As more companies set ambitious climate goals, will we see a shift towards long-term PPAs? How will this affect the energy market dynamics? And what role will offshore wind play in this new energy landscape? These are not just academic questions; they are pressing issues that will shape the sector’s development in the coming years.
The He Dreiht project is more than just a wind farm; it’s a symbol of the changing energy landscape. It’s a testament to the power of corporate ambition and strategic partnerships in driving the energy transition. As the sector watches this project unfold, it will be interesting to see how it influences the broader market dynamics and shapes the future of corporate energy procurement.