Offshore wind as the driver of a successful energy transition – the sector has a buoyant view of European growth

offshore wind has long established itself as a mainstay of European energy supply. One thing became crystal-clear at this year’s Shipping Dinner organised by the Nautical Association of Cuxhaven: the sector is determined to actively drive the energy transition with innovation, reliability and economic power. The conditions for a dynamic expansion campaign with pan-European coordination are favourable – what matters now is to join forces and continue down this path.

Martin Neubert, Chief Operating Officer at Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, views the years ahead with optimism: “Today, modern offshore wind farms deliver stable output on a par with large power plants – and are clean, affordable and reliable. Current investors will actively shape the future of energy.” Examples from Denmark and the UK already demonstrate how forward-looking political frameworks can lay the foundation for long-term planning security and a favourable investment environment.

The German sector also sees considerable potential. Cleverly organised tenders could help to secure competitive electricity prices in the long term – for households and industrial consumers alike. Neubert is convinced: “Offshore wind is the key to stable and sustainable energy supply. With the right frameworks, we will create not just secure supply, but also bright prospects for generations to come.’

Captain Arne Ehlers, Chair of the Cuxhaven Nautical Association and Managing Director of Blue Water BREB GmbH, sees the offshore wind sector as a genuine driver of growth:
“The goals for 2045 are ambitious – and achievable. What we need now is a continuous expansion pathway that is coordinated across Europe. This kind of pathway was recently proposed by WindEurope in Copenhagen: Starting 2030, ten gigawatts of new offshore capacity are to be planned and implemented jointly across Europe each year.” Doing so would present fresh economic prospects and space for innovation not only for industry, but also for shipyards, ports and suppliers.

European collaboration is at the heart of this development. While some countries can draw on large maritime areas, energy demand is more concentrated in regions like Germany. Ehlers emphasises: “A coordinated European offshore strategy harnesses available potential within an optimised framework and brings the energy to where it is needed – with collaboratively developed infrastructure and economic force.”

The fact that the sector is ready is also evident within industry. Kristoffer Mordhorst, COO at Siemens Gamesa in Cuxhaven, reports on plans for the production of over 1,000 turbines: “Our technology is ready – so what we need now are planning security and clear expansion targets so that supply chains remain efficient and innovations can unleash their full potential.” Heiko Mützelburg, Managing Director of Titan Wind Energy, also emphasises: “We are making targeted investments in capacities and expertise so that we can actively contribute to shaping the future of energy in Europe. Every decision strengthens the economy, creates jobs and ensures long-term competitiveness, provided it is made in good time.”

The infrastructure is evolving rapidly at the same time. Holger Banik, Managing Director of Niedersachsen Ports, stresses: “We have laid a strong foundation with over €200 million of investments in the  offshore port of Cuxhaven. Now it is essential to incorporate electricity, hydrogen and their distribution into integrated strategies – because offshore wind is the first stage in a new value chain.”

The conclusion in Cuxhaven is clear: the offshore industry is ready to shoulder its responsibility as a reliable partner for the future of energy. Political will, strategic foresight and strong European cooperation are what matter now. Common expansion targets and stable frameworks ensure economic growth, secure supply and a liveable future.

Martin Neubert puts it in a nutshell: “Offshore wind has long been a reality – one that bolsters Europe's energy sovereignty, reduces costs and presents opportunities for industry and society. The time has now come to continue writing this success story together.”

The message from the 2025 Shipping Dinner is clear: offshore wind is not just ready – it is the driver of positive and sustainable transformation across Europe. We are shaping an admirable energy future with courage, partnership and strategic foresight.