Netherlands Scales Back Offshore Wind Target to 30-40 GW by 2040

The Dutch government has scaled back its offshore wind capacity target from 50 gigawatts by 2040 to a new range of 30 to 40 gigawatts, citing rising costs, slower-than-expected industrial demand for green electricity, and challenges in the offshore wind sector. Minister for Climate and Green Growth Sophie Hermans explained that slower electrification, high capital expenditures, and delayed hydrogen market development have made the original target unrealistic and unnecessary at this time. Current offshore wind capacity stands at around 4.7 to 5 gigawatts, with additional projects underway, but slower industrial shifts to clean energy have hindered planned expansions. The government will continue developing necessary infrastructure such as undersea cables but will closely assess any capacity beyond 30 gigawatts based on technical, economic, and social feasibility. The decision follows postponed wind farm auctions due to lack of investor interest and aligns with a new North Sea Wind Energy Infrastructure Plan aiming for a more realistic energy transition path. Industry groups warn this reduction could jeopardize future ambitions for energy independence and investment security.