N2OWF: Redefining offshore wind with innovative technologies

The N2OWF project, officially known as Nordseecluster 2 (NC2), is helping to shape the next generation of offshore wind energy in Europe. Located in the eastern part of the German North Sea, it will generate 435 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity as part of the wider Nordseecluster, a group of offshore wind farms expected to reach up to 1.6 gigawatts (GW). 

Once the cluster is operational, it will generate enough renewable energy to power around 1.6 million households, equivalent to five percent of all German homes. The project is jointly realised by RWE and Norges Bank Investment Management, with RWE leading construction and operation. 

The Innovation Fund supports N2OWF with a grant of €95.9 million, sourced from revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System. It was selected in the 2021 large-scale call and is on track to lead the way in low-carbon offshore technologies and accelerate Europe’s clean energy transition. 

Driving innovation in offshore wind 

Innovation sits at the heart of N2OWF’s design. The project is among the first to deploy 15-megawatt wind turbines equipped with switchgears which are free of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) - a potent greenhouse gas with a warming effect stronger than carbon dioxide. It utilises simpler foundation structures without a transition piece between the monopile foundation and the turbine tower. This reduces the amount of steel required, thus cutting emissions during both manufacturing and construction, also making installation more efficient. 

To further lower its carbon footprint, the project opts for methanol-ready or hybrid battery-electric vessels for installations and maintenance. These cleaner ships reduce fuel consumption and help limit emissions throughout the wind farm’s lifetime.  

When fully operational in early 2027, N2OWF is expected to deliver around 1,800 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean electricity each year.  

From planning to construction 

The project reached financial close in January 2025, following several key milestones. The final investment decision was made on schedule, and in June 2024, the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) issued the full construction and operation permit. 

Despite global supply chain challenges, N2OWF successfully secured contracts for all its main components, including turbines, foundations, substations, and vessels, ensuring manufacturing to begin without delay. 

The project has now moved into the construction phase. The installation of the innovative monopile foundations has been successfully completed using advanced noise mitigation technologies designed to protect marine ecosystems. Meanwhile, factory testing of turbine and substation components is progressing, keeping the project firmly aligned with its delivery timetable. 

Boosting Regional and European Value 

Beyond its positive environmental and climactic impact, N2OWF brings significant economic and social benefits. In East Friesland, a new Offshore Wind Control Centre is being built in Jemgum. Once implemented in spring 2026, it will oversee RWE’s offshore wind assets across Germany and continental Europe, creating around 50 skilled jobs and strengthening the region as a hub for renewable energy expertise. 

N2OWF also showcases Europe-wide industrial cooperation. Key components are being manufactured and assembled across several EU Member States, including Poland, Spain, Italy, France, Denmark, Greece, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. This broad collaboration supports regional economies, foster shared know-how, and reinforces Europe’s leadership in offshore wind technology. 

A blueprint for tomorrow’s offshore wind 

“N2OWF is an integral part of our 1.6-gigawatt Nordseecluster offshore wind project off the German coast — but it represents so much more. It is a portfolio of innovations that allow us to drive greenhouse gas reduction at an entirely new scale. We are proud that support from the Innovation Fund has enabled our team to develop a broad range of solutions, the first of which are now becoming a reality” said Sven Schulemann, RWE’s Project Director of the Nordseecluster. 

By combining advanced technology with a clear commitment to reduce emissions, N2OWF contributes directly to the goals of the Clean Industrial Deal and the Europe’s climate neutrality target for 2050. It shows that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, delivering tangible benefits for Europe’s climate, economy, and citizens. 

Learn more about the Innovation Fund.  

Article published on 21 November 2025.