Germany's federal cabinet has signed off on draft amendments to the Offshore Wind Energy Act, seeking more cost-efficient offshore wind buildout while keeping existing expansion targets intact.

The reform introduces Contracts for Difference for offshore wind developments and extends the standard project operating term from 25 to 35 years. Additional provisions are set to streamline grid connection arrangements. According to the government, the revisions aim to lift project economics, reinforce investment certainty and bolster national energy security.

The draft also transposes requirements under the EU Net-Zero Industry Act, including mandatory cybersecurity and resilience benchmarks for projects.

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche commented the reform will allow for "more investment security, more realistic auctions and better use of the lines".