RWE, a global renewable energy company, and the Ustka Port Authority have signed a land lease agreement to establish an operations and maintenance base for the F.E.W. Baltic II offshore wind farm. This base, to be built at Ustka’s Western Quay, will play a critical role in both the development and future management of the wind farm, with an anticipated service life of over 30 years.
Key Developments and Impact
Lukas Prietz, Project Director of F.E.W. Baltic II at RWE, emphasized the significance of securing the land, calling it an essential step in realizing the company’s first Polish offshore wind farm. He revealed plans for the administration and control building, which will be constructed after 2025, meeting the internationally recognized BREEAM sustainability standards. The facility will serve as the hub for day-to-day operations and will create up to 50 local jobs.
The 350-MW F.E.W. Baltic II wind farm is strategically located 50 km offshore in the Baltic Sea, covering an area of 41 km². Scheduled to commence commercial operations by the end of this decade, the project remains on track, with only a few administrative approvals pending.
Strategic Partnership and Local Benefits
Maciej Karaś, President of the Ustka Seaport Authority, highlighted the historic cooperation between the port and RWE, which began in 2018, positioning Ustka as a leader in Poland’s burgeoning offshore wind industry.
Ustka Mayor Jacek Maniszewski echoed these sentiments, expressing pride in the port’s role in fostering sustainable energy projects. The mayor also emphasized the potential for the port’s further development and expansion, driven by partnerships like the one with RWE.
RWE’s decision to base operations in Ustka is bolstered by the port’s robust infrastructure, its proximity to the wind farm, and its capability for vessel repairs, refueling, and crew support.