Equinor Plans 500 MW Utsira Nord Floating Wind Farm
Equinor and Vårgrønn are advancing plans for a 500 MW floating offshore wind farm at Utsira Nord, off Norway's southwestern coast, following a February 2026 project-area award.
Their joint venture, Utsira Nord Havvind, owned 65% by Equinor and 35% by Vårgrønn, holds exclusive rights to conduct environmental assessments and seek construction approval.
The development includes offshore grid infrastructure, subsea cables, landfall facilities and connections to Norway's electricity network. Floating foundations are planned because water depths make conventional fixed-bottom installations unsuitable.
The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) received the development notification in March 2026, followed by public consultation from May to June.
The partners must complete environmental assessments and obtain construction permits before competing for government investment support, potentially in 2028–2029.
A final investment decision remains pending, with operations anticipated around 2035, subject to regulatory approvals and financing. Construction has not been authorized.
Source: Energies Media
