The Dutch Government has launched a tender for a 1GW offshore wind farm at the Nederwiek I-A site, marking another step in the Netherlands’ ambitious renewable energy expansion. Located approximately 95km off the west coast of Texel, the site spans 149.2km² and is set to be connected to the national grid via TenneT’s offshore substation platform. This platform will facilitate a 2GW direct current connection to an onshore substation in Borssele, which will also serve the adjacent Nederwiek I-B wind farm.
The tender process evaluates bidders on several criteria, including the project’s likelihood of realisation, its contribution to the Dutch renewable energy supply, financial offer, and environmental impact mitigation. Notably, the evaluation prioritises marine biodiversity protection, reflecting growing concerns about the ecological impact of offshore wind farms.
This project is part of the Netherlands’ broader strategy to meet its climate goals through large-scale clean energy infrastructure in the North Sea. To encourage wider market participation and reduce investment risks, the government has reduced the site size to 1GW and introduced relaxed tender criteria and liability adjustments. These changes aim to attract more bidders and accelerate the project timeline, with construction planned for 2030 and the tender winner set to be announced in spring 2026.
The Dutch Government’s approach to this tender could set a precedent for other countries looking to expand their offshore wind capacity. By prioritising environmental impact mitigation and reducing investment risks, the Netherlands is not only fostering a more competitive market but also demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development. This could inspire other nations to adopt similar strategies, potentially accelerating the global transition to renewable energy.
Moreover, the integration of the Nederwiek I-A and I-B wind farms into a single grid connection point showcases the Netherlands’ innovative approach to offshore wind farm development. This could pave the way for more efficient and cost-effective wind farm projects in the future, further driving the growth of the offshore wind sector.
In the words of a Dutch Energy Ministry spokesperson, “This tender is a significant step towards our goal of a sustainable and secure energy future. We are confident that these measures will attract a wide range of bidders and contribute to the successful realisation of this project.” The outcome of this tender could indeed shape the future of offshore wind development, both in the Netherlands and beyond.