North Sea set for major clean energy transformation under new UK and Europe partnership
Nations unite to deliver 100GW of offshore wind linked across borders
Countries surrounding the North Sea are set to sign an ambitious new energy pact to deliver joint offshore wind projects, marking a significant step towards clean energy independence across Europe.
The Hamburg Declaration, designed to create an unprecedented fleet of interconnected offshore wind farms, will be signed today (Monday, 26th January 2026) at the Future of the North Seas Summit in Hamburg. The deal involves the UK, Germany, Norway, France, and Denmark.
The agreement builds on North Sea nations' 2023 commitment to generate 300GW of offshore wind power by 2050, including 100GW delivered through projects shared between multiple countries.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the pact would help transform the region’s energy landscape.
"We are standing up for our national interest by driving clean energy, which can get the UK off the fossil fuel rollercoaster and give us energy sovereignty and abundance," Miliband said.
The Government anticipates that industry will use the opportunity to pursue new offshore wind projects, as well as accelerate the connection of the offshore grid between Britain, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands. Plans include joint planning, cost-sharing, and market arrangements to expedite delivery.
A framework for stronger subsea energy collaboration between the UK and Germany is also on the agenda, which would enhance business opportunities for UK firms specialising in grid technology.
Germany’s minister of economics and energy Katherina Reiche said: "The North Sea is a strategic key area for Europe's energy and supply security.
"By planning expansion, grids, and industry together and implementing them across borders, we are creating clean and affordable energy, strengthening our industrial base, and increasing Europe's strategic sovereignty."
Offshore wind has become a vital part of Europe's strategy to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, particularly following disruptions to energy supplies after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The declaration signals a united effort to create sustainable energy infrastructure and address the growing need for energy security in the region.