SMM Direct: Offshore Wind Dialogue Focuses on Overcoming Difficulties

At the second SMM Offshore Dialogue, Andreas Wagner, Managing Director of German Offshore Wind Energy Foundation, has opened the Offshore Wind Dialogue, replacing the Chairman of the organisation Jörg Kuhbier at the event.

Mr. Wagner gave an overview of the current situation and plans for offshore wind in Germany. He presented the German Offshore Wind Energy Foundation, highlighting its effort to influence the framework and conditions for offshore wind in the country.

Also, Mr. Wagner was speaking about the role that demonstration and testing had in the development of German offshore wind.

Chairman of the Offshore Wind Dialogue, Thorsten Herdan, Managing Director of VDMA Power Systems, pointed out the importance of “Yes, we can!” attitude in offshore wind development, instead of the more common focusing on problems and obstacles.

Mr. Herdan said that offshore wind is facing difficulties; however, there are possibilities and challenges met by developers who can give a bright example and an insight in overcoming some offshore wind issues.

On that matter, he mentioned Hans Kahle, Managing Director of RWE Innogy Offshore Logistics GmbH, Michael Hannibal, CEO Offshore from Siemens Wind Power and Felix Pahl, Head of German Project Development from DONG Energy Renewables GmbH, who were also speakers at the event.

Mr. Kahle said that they have learned a lot over the past years and now realize that there is a lot more to work on in the future. Experience and gained knowledge are crucial for improvement, he said.

[mappress]

Offshore WIND staff, September 6, 2012