Germany added 1.1GW of offshore wind capacity in the first half of 2026, but industry groups believe the market needs a hard reset if the next wave of projects is to reach final investment decision (FID), according to Splash247.
Build-Out Progress
Installed offshore capacity climbed to 10.8GW after 84 turbines with 1,077MW were connected to the grid between January and June, according to industry data cited by Splash247. Another 22 turbines, totalling 323MW, are under construction, while projects with 2.6GW have already reached FID. A further 17.5GW has been awarded but not yet taken through to investment decision. The build-out keeps Germany on track for more capacity growth, but the sector says the regulatory framework is now the bigger problem.
| Category | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Installed (end of H1 2026) | 10.8GW |
| Added in H1 2026 | 1.077GW |
| Under construction | 323MW |
| Reached FID | 2.6GW |
| Awarded but not at FID | 17.5GW |
Industry Reform Demands
BWO and several other industry associations warned that the current tender design is undermining future investment after the August 2025 auction failed to attract a single bid. The groups want the offshore wind law amended this summer and the current negative bidding system replaced with two-sided, index-linked contracts for difference. They argue that such a structure would reduce financing risk, improve bankability and help keep electricity costs competitive. The associations also want a return mechanism for sites that become commercially unviable, so they can be retendered without delay.
"The previous system of negative bids has failed and must be replaced immediately by contracts for difference," BWO said, pressing the government to move quickly so developers can prepare for the 2027 tenders.
Target Concerns
Germany’s offshore wind target remains 30GW by 2030, but BWO stated the current pace would not get the country there until 2032. The industry is also concerned about project delays caused by changing market conditions and the slow progress of grid connections, with some developers looking to step back from awarded sites. Without swift regulatory reform, the risk of further delays and missed targets increases, potentially slowing the energy transition in one of Europe's largest offshore wind markets.
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