Ventyr Seeks Delay in License Application for Offshore Wind Project
Two years after clinching Norway’s inaugural offshore wind auction, Ventyr has requested a one-year postponement of its license application. This decision has elicited disappointment from Fornybar Norge, a leading renewable energy organization.
The energy sector has been buzzing with news from the niche publication Energiwatch, which first reported on Ventyr’s appeal. Documents obtained by E24 reveal that the developer is asking for additional time before proceeding with the licensing necessary to advance its ambitious offshore wind project in the Sørlige Nordsjø II area.
Initially, Ventyr was set to submit its application by October 15. However, uncertainty had emerged about whether they would meet this deadline, as noted by industry publications Europower and Energiwatch. The company cited challenges related to permits for mapping and investigations as key factors behind their request. “These challenges have been beyond Ventyr’s control,” the company explained in their correspondence.
Amid these developments, discussions surrounding potential state support of NOK 23 billion for the project have intensified, particularly in relation to the DKK 35 billion subsidy earmarked for floating offshore wind initiatives in the Utsira Nord area. Recently, a majority in the Storting has called for fresh cost analyses and quality assurance regarding this funding.
The offshore wind sector has faced considerable hurdles in recent years, struggling with profitability amid rising inflation and supply chain disruptions.
Jon Evang, director of offshore wind at Renewable Norway, voiced regret over the delay. “It is unfortunate that the development of the Sørlige Nordsjø II wind farm is being postponed. Norway urgently needs this power, which would be the country’s largest energy facility, providing vital electricity to regions currently afflicted by steep energy costs,” he remarked.
Nevertheless, Evang acknowledged the rationale behind Ventyr’s request, noting that the company is navigating uncharted waters in Norway’s renewable energy landscape. “Given that Ventyr is pioneering something truly novel, it’s understandable that unforeseen challenges have arisen. It is crucial that Norwegian authorities collaborate with Ventyr to find a swift resolution,” he added.
In spring 2024, Ventyr emerged victorious in Norway’s first offshore wind auction, competing against industry giant Equinor. The company, owned by Jera Nex—a partnership between BP and the Japanese power company Jera—and the Ingka group, which controls a significant portion of Ikea’s global sales, proposed a bid of 115 øre per kilowatt-hour. This initial plan foresaw the project, valued around NOK 80 billion, becoming operational by 2030.
While the postponement of Ventyr’s license application may be disappointing, it underscores the complexities and evolving nature of Norway’s offshore wind ambitions.
