Imagine two massive hubs out at sea—futuristic power stations floating like green beacons in the waves. This isn’t science fiction. It’s Denmark’s bold plan to reshape the energy landscape of Europe.
By 2036, Denmark aims to complete the construction of two Energy Islands—one in the stormy waters of the North Sea, and the other near the historic island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea. Together, these islands will support up to 13 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity. That’s enough clean energy to power more than 13 million European homes—over twice the population of Denmark itself.
But what does 13 GW really mean?
Let’s put it into perspective:
- It’s enough electricity to power every single home in London, Paris, and Berlin—at the same time.
- It could charge over 200 million electric car batteries.
- It would cover the total energy use of Google’s global data centers, with plenty of wind to spare.
This enormous leap—more than quadrupling Denmark’s current offshore wind capacity—will place the country at the very center of Europe’s green transition. Not just as a user of renewable energy, but as an exporter and energy connector. The Energy Islands will serve as international hubs, linking multiple countries to clean electricity through a state-of-the-art underwater grid.
Two Islands, Two Timelines
While both Energy Islands share a common vision, their development paths differ:
North Sea Energy Island – Delayed, but Still Ambitious
The North Sea Energy Island, originally scheduled for completion by 2033, has faced delays due to rising costs and shifting partnerships. The project is now expected to be completed by 2036. With a revised cost exceeding DKK 200 billion ($30 billion), the Danish government is currently exploring new financing options, including potential collaboration with Germany, after Belgium withdrew from the initiative.
Despite the delay, the ambition remains sky-high: to create the world’s first artificial island dedicated entirely to offshore wind, with infrastructure that connects and distributes energy across Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Bornholm Energy Island – On Track for 2030
In contrast, the Bornholm Energy Island in the Baltic Sea is progressing steadily. The Danish Energy Agency and Energinet have initiated tender processes for key components such as HVDC cables and offshore installations. Construction is expected to begin once environmental permits and archaeological studies conclude in 2025.
This project is on schedule to begin operation by 2030, making Bornholm one of the first energy hubs of its kind in the world. The electricity generated will be transmitted via undersea and overland cables to Zealand and Germany, helping stabilize green energy flows in northern Europe.
