Swedish utility Vattenfall has now taken the full final investment decision (FID) for the Nordlicht offshore wind cluster with a capacity of over 1.6GW.

This follows the irrevocable permit for the Nordlicht II offshore wind farm issued by Germany’s Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH).

Construction of the wind farms is planned to begin in 2026, with Nordlicht I set to become Germany’s largest offshore wind project. Monopile installation for the project is scheduled to start in the third quarter of this year, while Nordlicht II will follow approximately one year later. Both wind farms are expected to be operational in 2028.

Vattenfall took a full FID for Nordlicht I and an FID for Nordlicht II on a conditional basis in March 2025, pending the receipt of the necessary permit for Nordlicht II. The irrevocable permit removes that condition and confirms full FID for the entire cluster.

As part of Vattenfall’s sustainability efforts, both wind farms will feature turbine towers partially made with low-emission steel, reducing their overall carbon footprint by 16%.

“This project is about more than building offshore wind capacity – it’s about strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By producing clean electricity locally, we help create a more resilient energy system,” said Catrin Jung, SVP and head of wind business area.