Bidding for Utsira Nord wind projects is open
Norway is offering up to 1.5 GW of floating wind capacity across three sites at Utsira Nord, with final awards expected in 2026 and state support capped at $3.4 B.
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Norway: Norway has initiated a competitive process to allocate three project sites in the Utsira Nord area for floating offshore wind development. Each site can support up to 500 MW of capacity, contributing to the country’s broader goal of designating up to 30 GW of offshore wind production by 2040.
The selection process will take place in two stages. The first involves awarding the three areas based on qualitative criteria, including cost-efficiency, project maturity, technological innovation, execution capability, sustainability, and regional economic benefits. The application deadline is 15 September 2025, with site awards expected in the first half of 2026.
Following the initial award, a maturation phase will precede the allocation of state financial support. Only developers who submit a license application and a bank guarantee will be eligible for the funding competition. This second stage will proceed only if at least two bidders qualify. The project must aim for a capacity close to 500 MW, and state aid will be granted to the lowest bidder.
Support is capped at $3.4 B (NOK35 B), as set by the Norwegian parliament.
Energy Minister Terje Aasland emphasized the strategic importance of Utsira Nord, located offshore Rogaland, noting the project’s potential to supply electricity to high-demand regions and create opportunities for domestic suppliers. The area has been open for offshore energy development since June 2020.
Sources: MSN, Government.no
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