The German government has adopted the long-awaited national port strategy. As part of this, the federal government has now also committed to making a financial contribution to the most important transshipment point for onshore and offshore wind energy in Germany. This is an important signal for Cuxhaven, the local port industry and, above all, for the energy transition in Germany.

Cuxhaven, March 25, 2024- Cuxhaven is the only coastal location in Germany that has the heavy-duty port areas needed for the required parts of wind turbines. It is also the only coastal location that can make these available at short notice, as planning permission has already been granted. Every year, around 15,000 large components for onshore and offshore wind turbines are already delivered via the deep-water terminals in Cuxhaven, including around 80 percent of all rotor blades for onshore wind turbines. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

The estimated construction costs for the infrastructure amount to around €300 million, which cannot be raised and refinanced by the state of Lower Saxony and the private sector alone. The state of Lower Saxony has already earmarked € 100 million in its budget, while the private port industry will contribute a further € 100 million through concession fees. The federal government's commitment to the remaining € 100 million means that berths 5-7 can now be realized.

Michael de Reese, Chairman of the Cuxhaven Port Association: "We very much welcome the decision by the federal government, which means that the urgently needed expansion of Cuxhaven can now go ahead. We would like to thank all those involved who have campaigned for this important project over the past few months. This is a good day for Cuxhaven and the energy transition in
Deutschland.”