Offshore wind energy has firmly established itself as a key industrial and economic driver in Germany, generating 31,530 full-time jobs and €14.6 billion in gross value added in 2025, according to a new study by German Offshore Wind Energy Association, conducted by wind:research.

The report highlights that the sector’s impact extends far beyond coastal regions, positioning offshore wind as a nationwide employment engine with strong industrial roots inland.

Inland regions lead employment growth

Contrary to common perception, the bulk of employment linked to offshore wind is concentrated in Germany’s industrial heartlands. North Rhine-Westphalia leads with around 6,300 full-time positions, followed by Baden-Württemberg with more than 5,300, while Saarland and Lower Saxony each exceed 3,500 jobs.

The study underscores that while northern regions remain central for installation, logistics, and operations, a significant share of the value chain—particularly manufacturing and engineering—takes place inland.

Growth potential: up to 120,000 jobs by 2045

The sector’s outlook remains highly positive. If Germany meets its legally mandated target of 70 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2045, employment could rise to around 120,000 workers, nearly quadrupling current levels, with over €50 billion in added value.

“The study provides reliable figures on the importance of offshore wind energy for Germany,” said Stefan Thimm, Managing Director of the BWO. “Offshore wind has long been a core industrial sector, extending far beyond coastal regions.”

Infrastructure constraints threaten expansion

Despite strong growth, the report identifies grid connectivity as a critical bottleneck, putting pressure on the sector’s development. Companies expect average project delays of 3.2 years, which could disrupt supply chains and investment timelines.

Currently, 893 companies are active in the German offshore wind market, with roughly one-third exclusively focused on the sector. However, increasing international competition is also placing strain on domestic supply chains.

Economic risks if targets are reduced

The study warns that failing to meet expansion targets could have significant economic consequences. A reduction from 70 GW to 60 GW by 2045 would result in the loss of up to 50,000 potential jobs and €20 billion in added value.

“Anyone who questions the expansion of offshore wind energy not only jeopardizes energy supply, but also tens of thousands of jobs and industrial prospects,” Thimm emphasized.

To unlock the sector’s full potential, the BWO calls for stable expansion pathways, accelerated grid development, and investment in port infrastructure, alongside a coordinated industrial policy.