RWE's Norfolk Vanguard wind farms secure £35M port upgrades for 2029 launch
RWE has moved forward with its Norfolk Vanguard offshore wind projects after securing government funding earlier this year. The energy firm has now partnered with Clarkson Port Services and Associated British Ports (ABP) to support construction. Together, the two wind farms will generate enough power for around 3 million UK homes once completed.
In January 2025, RWE won Contracts for Difference (CfDs) for the Vanguard West and Vanguard East projects in the UK's seventh CfD round. This funding secured the future of the developments, which will have a combined capacity of 2,760 MW. The first phase is set to begin operations in 2029, with the second following in 2030.
Clarksons Port Services will manage construction logistics from the Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility (LEEF). The company has signed an agreement with RWE and ABP to lease and operate part of the port on their behalf. ABP has already invested £35 million (around €40 million) in upgrading LEEF, including deep-water berths, modern utilities, and infrastructure for shore power and alternative fuels. RWE is also finalising investment plans, with a decision expected this summer. Meanwhile, US investment firm KKR will take a 50% stake in each of the Norfolk Vanguard projects, following the CfD awards.
The two wind farms mark RWE's only current offshore wind developments in Great Britain. Once fully operational, they will significantly boost the UK's renewable energy supply. Construction and commissioning will take place over the next five to six years.
