Ventyr, a consortium comprising Parkwind and Ingka Investments, has won the first offshore wind auction in Norway.

The consortium will undertake the development of the 1.5GW Sørlige Nordsjø II phase 1 project in the southern Norwegian North Sea.

The offshore wind auction aligns with the country's goal to award 30GW of offshore wind power by 2040.

The Sørlige Nordsjø II project will play a pivotal role in Norway's renewable energy strategy, with the first turbines operational by 2030.

Ventyr secured the project with a competitive bid of Nkr1.15/kWh in the auction, which was initially announced in April 2023.

Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated: “This is a very good day. This government has worked to realise offshore wind in Norway since day one, and today we have carried out the first successful auction.

“Norway has ocean areas with rich wind recourses and a supply industry with world-leading technology expertise. We will build on this in the coming years by announcing new areas and new auctions.” 

Norway’s Minister of Energy, Terje Aasland, stated: “This is a milestone in the government’s offshore wind ambition, and today we have taken a big step forward in the work to develop offshore wind in Norway.” 

The Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy disclosed that of the total applicants in February 2024, five had qualified for the auction by demonstrating criteria for sustainability, potential for positive local economic effects and the ability to implement the project.

A contract for difference, which outlines the terms for state aid payments, must be signed within four weeks of the contract being awarded.

The winning consortium is granted a project area and a time-limited exclusive right to conduct a project-specific impact assessment and to apply for a licence under the country's Ocean Energy Act.

Ventyr project manager Jorne Bluekens stated: “We are thrilled to have secured the winning bid for the Sørlige Nordsjø II project. This achievement underscores our commitment to driving positive change through renewable energy innovation.

“We look forward to working closely with our partners and stakeholders to bring this project to fruition and deliver tangible benefits to the local community.”

Parkwind recently sold its 30% stake in the 216MW Northwind offshore wind farm to Aspiravi Offshore for an undisclosed amount.