Masdar and RWE Secure UK Approval for 3 GW Dogger Bank South Wind Projects

Global energy companies RWE and Masdar have welcomed the approval of the Development Consent Order (DCO) for the proposed Dogger Bank South (DBS) offshore wind projects by Lord Whitehead, acting on behalf of the UK Energy Secretary.

The approval marks a major milestone for the Dogger Bank South offshore wind development, which comprises two separate projects, DBS West and DBS East, planned more than 100 kilometres off the northeast coast of England. Together, the two wind farms are expected to deliver a combined installed capacity of 3 GW, generating enough renewable electricity to power the equivalent of nearly three million UK homes annually.

The projects are expected to create substantial economic opportunities for businesses and local communities across Yorkshire, the Humber region, and the wider UK supply chain through construction, manufacturing, and long-term operations activities.

Earlier in January 2026, the projects secured Contracts for Difference (CfD) support from the UK Government under Allocation Round 7 (AR7), strengthening the commercial viability of the developments and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to expanding offshore renewable energy capacity.

The Development Consent Order application for the projects was submitted in June 2024. As part of the extensive planning and examination process, more than 1,000 documents were reviewed by the Planning Inspectorate, alongside 10 online examination hearings conducted during the assessment period.

Following the approval, RWE and Masdar will now move forward with detailed final design activities and procurement planning. The joint venture partners are targeting a Final Investment Decision (FID) in 2027.

The Dogger Bank South projects are being jointly developed by RWE, which holds a 51 percent stake, and Masdar, which owns the remaining 49 percent.

The projects are expected to play a significant role in supporting the UK’s clean energy transition and offshore wind expansion ambitions while contributing to long-term energy security and decarbonisation goals.