Comparative test remains in tender methodology

On May 31, the minister announced the methodology for the upcoming tenders for offshore wind energy areas in the relevant letter to Parliament . He has decided to continue the so-called comparative test based on non-price criteria with minimum requirements with regard to the financial offer. NedZero is pleased with this decision.

The decision

The minister has opted for a comparative test with a financial bid for the granting of permits, to stimulate innovation and ecological measures and to manage risks. The benefits of smaller plots of 1 GW to limit financial risks, and the challenges surrounding ecological carrying capacity and integration into the energy system are further investigated. And for the upcoming plots Gamma and Nederwiek plot I, a tip height of a maximum of 1000 feet (304.8 meters) will apply.

The exact interpretation of criteria and procedures will be further elaborated. The draft versions of the ministerial regulations will be published in the last quarter of this year.

NedZero is happy with the choice for the comparative test.

"The Dutch approach to offshore wind is internationally leading. This is a good move to maintain our leading role and promote our export capacity in this sector.

The possible introduction of a maximum tip height stems from the North Seas Standard, a NedZero initiative of our industry to get costs under better control. It is good that the Minister also recognises this need.

We look forward to the first draft of the ministerial regulation and the site decision. The sector is happy to contribute ideas about the further implementation of the IJVER Gamma and Nederwiek 1 tenders and we are happy to contribute as much as possible to making this tender a success again."

The comparative test

The comparative test in the current tender methodology focuses on quality. The principle has been applied, among other things, in the tenders for Hollandse Kust (west). Ecology and integration of the electricity produced into the energy system (system integration) were two main criteria at the time.

A number of non-price criteria have been added in recent tenders. For IJmuiden Ver - Alpha and Bèta, in addition to ecology, this concerns circularity and ICSR (International Corporate Social Responsibility).