The Offshore TSO Collaboration: Advancing Offshore Grid Development in the North Sea
The Offshore TSO Collaboration (OTC), established in 2022, brings together transmission system operators (TSOs) from the European Northern Seas to advocate for a unified and efficient offshore grid development strategy in the North Sea. The OTC emphasizes the importance of maximizing benefits for Europe’s energy security, independence, and competitiveness through offshore energy infrastructure.
Integrated Offshore Grid Development
Recently, twelve offshore TSOs announced their commitment to pursuing an integrated offshore grid in the North Sea. They underscored that Europe’s energy independence must start at sea and that the successful energy transition in Europe hinges on developing offshore energy potential, including offshore wind farms and the necessary grid connections.
The TSOs from the Northern Seas have collaborated over the past three years to advance infrastructure development in alignment with the goals of the Esbjerg and Ostend Declarations, which aim to boost the combined offshore wind capacity of the Northern Seas.
Benefits of a Regional Approach
At WindEurope 2025 in Copenhagen, the TSOs unveiled the findings of a pilot study highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of a regional approach to offshore grid development in the Northern Seas. The study showcased a grid map outlining promising cross-border projects that, when viewed as part of a broader regional grid, can maximize synergies and cost efficiencies.
The OTC plans to submit a set of conceptual projects to the Ten-Year Network Development Plan (TYNDP) 2026, laying the groundwork for joint cost-sharing negotiations among participating countries.
Proposed Regional Planning Process
The OTC advocates for a regional planning process that complements existing initiatives like the TYNDP and Offshore Network Development Plan (ONDP) to enhance coordination and efficiency. This process aims to support a government-endorsed regional approach, fostering collaboration and aligning with Europe’s ambitious plans for an interconnected energy system in the North Sea.
In a press release on April 9, the Offshore TSO Collaboration emphasized the critical role of robust offshore infrastructure in Europe’s energy future. With ongoing political support and increased collaboration, Europe can advance as a leader in offshore renewable energy.