Cuxhaven is gearing up for a pivotal chapter in Germany’s renewable energy expansion, with construction slated to begin on three new berths at the Offshore Terminal in February 2025. Spanning a combined length of 1,250 meters, these berths (5 to 7) will link the Europakai to existing offshore facilities, creating a seamless quay for wind turbine logistics. This development is crucial for meeting Germany’s ambitious offshore wind energy goals, aiming to quadruple capacity from 8 GW to 30 GW by 2030.
The €300 million project represents a collaborative effort between federal and state governments, local industries, and port operators. Public funding of up to €200 million will come from the Gemeinschaftsaufgabe zur Verbesserung der regionalen Wirtschaftsstruktur (GRW) initiative, while private stakeholders, including concessionaires, will cover the remainder.
Cuxport GmbH and Blue Water Breb GmbH have secured operating rights for the terminals, with plans to manage 19-hectare areas each. These facilities are tailored for wind energy logistics and will cater to diverse vessel types, including specialized jack-up ships essential for offshore installations.
The construction consortium, including Tiefbau GmbH Unterweser and Heinrich Hirdes GmbH, will create berths capable of accommodating ships up to 300 meters in length. Enhanced terminal surfaces, with load capacities of 15 tons per square meter, ensure readiness for the colossal components of wind turbines. The berths will feature water depths of up to 17 meters to accommodate a range of maritime needs.
Approval from the European Commission was a crucial step, underscoring the alignment of public investment with EU competition laws. This decision highlights the strategic importance of Cuxhaven in supporting Germany’s and Europe’s green energy transition.
Stakeholders have hailed this milestone as transformative. Olaf Lies, Lower Saxony’s Minister for Economy, stated, “This expansion solidifies Cuxhaven as a cornerstone for the nation’s renewable energy ambitions.” Meanwhile, Uwe Santjer, Cuxhaven’s mayor, emphasized the project’s regional and national significance, calling it a beacon for Germany’s climate objectives.
Cuxhaven’s new berths will not only bolster wind energy logistics but also drive regional economic growth, creating jobs and attracting further investment. This comprehensive initiative positions the port as a critical hub in Germany’s quest for energy independence and sustainability.
