The government of Denmark has approved plans for an artificial island in the North Sea to act as a clean energy hub for the country. The island, which will be built about 50 miles offshore, is expected to produce and store enough renewable energy to power 3 million homes along with multiple industries. The project is expected to cost about $34 billion, 51% of which will be funded by the Danish government. The other amount will be provided by the private sector.
The project will happen in two phases. The initial phase will see the island producing 3 gigawatts of electricity. Upon completion, the facility is expected to produce 10 gigawatts. The island will be equipped with high walls on three sides, with one side remaining open for service docking.
The proposed island will be the size of 18 football fields in its first phase and will link to offshore wind turbines. The facility will also generate green hydrogen, which will be used in the aviation, shipping and industrial sectors. Besides the proposed island, the Danish government is also exploring plans to build another artificial energy island in the Baltic Sea.
“This is truly a great moment for Denmark and for the global green transition,” said Dan Jørgensen, Denmark’s Energy Minister. “(The island) will make a big contribution to the realization of the enormous potential for European offshore wind.”
The news comes shortly after Denmark announced it would stop its search for gas and oil in the North Sea. Denmark has a legal target to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 70% below 1990s levels by 2030. To meet its targets, Denmark will need to implement new energy policies and investments. The project will not only help cut down carbon emissions but will provide the energy needed to sustainably power the country’s industries.
