Equinor and RWE are to continue their collaboration on the development of bottom-fixed offshore wind farm in the Sørlige Nordsjø 2 (SN2) after Hydro Rein decided not to participate in this competition round. Together, Equinor and RWE have significant experience and expertise in developing offshore wind both in Norway and international markets. Hydro Rein's decision will not affect the progress of the application for pre-qualification or preparations for an auction for acreage in the SN2 later.

The partnership between the three companies was announced in May 2021 and built on common goals and ambitions. Hydro Rein has justified its decision by saying that it will be setting other priorities in its portfolio and that the decision not to participate in the Norwegian auction is based on an overall assessment.

Siri Espedal Kindem, Head of Equinor Renewable Norway: “We would have liked to have Hydro Rein on board, but it is not uncommon for changes in cooperation to occur at an early stage of a project development like this. We will continue our good work with RWE going forward. There is strong collaboration between our two companies, both of which have a wealth of industrial experience in offshore wind.”

Pål Coldevin, RWE’s Executive Vice President for Offshore Development in the wider 
Nordic region: “Norway has everything it takes to be a leading offshore wind market in the future. At RWE we want to support this. As one of the leading companies in offshore wind globally, we prepare to participate in the upcoming offshore wind tenders in Norway. Building on the experience and expertise of both Equinor and RWE, our teams are working hard to deliver our joint application for Sørlige Nordsjø 2.”

The authorities have been informed of Hydro Rein's decision and the change will not affect Equinor and RWE’s application for pre-qualification on the SN2.