RWE, a major player in the global offshore industry, and the Port of Karlshamn in Sweden have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The collaboration aims to assess whether the Port of Karlshamn could serve as a suitable hub for logistics, installation, and operations and maintenance activities for RWE's planned offshore wind projects in the Baltic Sea.

Initially, the partners will identify requirements and necessary infrastructure investments to expand the port's capacity. This proactive approach to enhancing port capacity will position Sweden to fully leverage the potential of the offshore wind sector. The collaboration underscores a commitment to sharing knowledge and expertise to support broader industrial growth in Sweden.

Matilda Machacek, Vice President of Offshore Development Nordics at RWE Offshore Wind, emphasized that port capacity and a sustainable supply chain industry play pivotal roles in the deployment of offshore wind projects. She highlighted that the establishment of a new offshore wind farm could potentially revitalize a nearby harbor, fostering considerable growth, infrastructure development, job creation, and economic advantages for the region. Machacek expressed RWE's anticipation for collaborating with the Port of Karlshamn to assess its potential as a future offshore wind hub.

Anton Andersson, Project Lead at RWE Renewables Sweden, highlighted that the Karehamn offshore wind farm serves as a notable example of harbor development. He noted that the wind farm has consistently provided green electricity to numerous Swedish households for over a decade. Additionally, Andersson pointed out that the wind farm has contributed to the revitalization of the old fishing harbor. Drawing from this successful experience, RWE intends to pursue further offshore wind farm projects in the Baltic Sea.

Caroline Säfström, CEO at Port of Karlshamn, expressed gratitude for RWE's support in the port's ambition to become an offshore wind hub. She emphasized that the Port of Karlshamn, with its naturally deep harbor and expansive shipyard, is strategically positioned to meet the future demands of the offshore wind industry in the Baltic Sea. Säfström acknowledged the need for increased port capacity, particularly for services related to offshore wind energy, such as maintenance and operations centers.

She described expanding the port's product portfolio in this direction as a logical progression, given its previous experience with wind energy projects and logistics. By establishing itself as an offshore wind energy hub, Port of Karlshamn aims to generate employment opportunities for the region and stimulate business prospects for local companies and suppliers. This, in turn, contributes to the economic advancement of the area and bolsters the local economy.