The winner of the tender will be announced in the second quarter of 2024, and the offshore wind farm is planned to be built in 2028.

Wind energy stands out from other types of energy from renewable resources due to its sophistication and rapid technological progress. Energy produced from wind reduces air pollution, contributes to the mitigation of climate change, helps ensure energy security and reduces fossil fuel imports. Wind energy is inexhaustible, and expanding the wind energy sector creates new jobs and promotes regional development. It is worth noting that in the National Energy Independence Strategy, our country has an ambitious goal - to produce up to 100 percent of the country's electricity from renewable sources. In order to achieve these indicators, the role of wind energy, especially offshore, will only strengthen in the future.

It will reach about 300 meters (the highest point of the blade). 

Burying the foundation of wind farms into the seabed depends on the chosen type of foundation of the wind farm and the properties of the seabed soil. Since the average sea depth in the first offshore wind farm is about 35 meters, it is likely that the monopile foundation technology will be chosen for this sea depth. This type of foundation is a single, large-diameter foundation structural element that is driven into the seabed for potentially 30 meters or more. 

The area of the territory planned for the offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea is about 136.39 km². 

Possible changes to the natural environment will be defined in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and compensatory and preventive environmental protection measures will have to be implemented by the park developer. 

Offshore wind farms will not have a negative impact on either land or water recreational tourism. The offshore wind power plants will be located about 30 kilometers from the shore. 

Approximate forecast about 3 TWh. 

Currently, the biggest challenge to Lithuania's energy security is the lack of electricity generation. Offshore wind farm - one of the most important projects of Lithuania's energy independence will significantly increase the production of electricity from renewable energy resources and thus reduce Lithuania's dependence on electricity imports and contribute to lower electricity prices for residents.  

Stronger winds prevail in the sea, so more energy can be produced in a smaller area. On land, power plants of similar power would require much more space.  

The areas for the development of offshore wind energy were determined taking into account the use of the sea area for fishing, navigation, port and marina activities, nature protection, military purposes excavated areas for dredging the soil and feeding sand beaches, as well as the areas of the engineering infrastructure. 

About 1,300 new jobs are tentatively planned during the construction period of the park.  

International sea lanes and the most intensive fishing areas were taken into account when determining the suitable development areas for offshore wind energy. It will be possible to enter the territory of the wind farm after obtaining the permission of the owner. 

The construction will be carried out in the permitted areas in accordance with the environmental impact assessment (EIA) requirements, which will ensure minimal invasion of the seabed. 

In countries where offshore wind farms have already been built, it has been observed that the foundations of the built wind farms become artificial reefs for marine life and vegetation. 

The environmental damage of offshore wind farms is minimal, especially compared to offshore oil and gas production. Ecosystem damage from wind farms is possible when the foundations of the farms are attached to or built on the seabed. However, various technologies are used to reduce potential damage, including: a bubble curtain that reduces sound propagation under water, or reducing the distance between individual power plants, thereby minimizing the number of potentially dangerous crossing corridors for birds, etc. Also, studies show that offshore wind farms become a kind of marine flora and fauna reserves that thrive due to restrictions on boat and fishing traffic near the farms. Such reserves provide shelter for native aquatic species. 

The ongoing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will assess the impact of the offshore wind farm, as well as provide recommendations and requirements to the developer. 

• The offshore wind farm will ensure lower electricity prices for Lithuanian residents and businesses;
• Energy produced from wind does not pollute the air and allows to reduce the impact on the climate;
• It is planned that the budget of Palanga city municipality will be supplemented by about 3 million. euros, which the park developer will be obliged to pay from the amount of electricity generated and supplied to the network;
• During the construction period, it is planned to create as many as 1.3 thousand. new jobs;
• The project will attract more than 1 billion EUR of private investments; 
• Development of Klaipėda seaport.

• It is planned that the budget of nearest city municipality will be supplemented by about 3 million. euros, which the park developer will be obliged to pay from the amount of electricity generated and supplied to the network;
• During the construction and exploitation period, it is planned to create as many as 1.3 thousand new jobs

Yes, the opinion of the residents of Palanga has already been taken into account: the distance from the planned 9 kilometers has been moved to 30 kilometers from the shore in the sea. 

Also, meetings with the community are organized: the first meeting took place on July 21 this year, in which the Minister of Energy Dainius Kreivys also participated. 

Connecting the park will not pollute the sea coast.

The beaches will not be narrowed.

The preliminary value is about EUR 1.3-2 billion. 

The power supplied to the transmission network is 700MW. Main characteristics of the territory:  

• occupied area – 136.39 km²;  
• average depth – 35 meters;  
• distance from Klaipėda seaport is from 38 kilometers;  
• distance from the coast about 30 kilometers; 
• average wind speed is about 9 m/s (obtained by mathematical modeling (100 m above sea level)). 

Currently, the biggest challenge to Lithuania's energy security is the lack of electricity generation. New methods of energy generation are very important for Lithuania. 

The offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea is one of the most important projects envisaged in the National Energy Independence Strategy, which will increase local electricity production from renewable energy sources and reduce dependence on electricity imports. 

To be clear, one reactor of the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) had a capacity of 1,500 MW: the planned offshore wind park is half of an IPP reactor, or 700 MW, and the two parks as a single reactor IPP reactor. 

The Ministry of Energy of Lithuania together with EPSO-G, group of energy transmission and exchange companies, and the public institution Lithuanian Energy Agency. The project is partially financed by the European Commission. 

Currently, some of the largest offshore wind development markets are Great Britain, Germany, China, Denmark and Belgium, accounting for nearly 93 percent capacity of installed offshore wind power plants. Some examples: 

• „Hornsea 2” – one of the world's largest offshore wind farms, located on the Yorkshire coast in the North Sea. The park consists of 165 wind turbines and can supply power over 1.4 million UK homes.  
• „Horns Rev 3” – the largest offshore wind farm in Scandinavia. The park consists of 49 wind turbines and is capable of supplying around 425,000 Danish households with electricity. 
• „Thornton Bank” – Belgium's first offshore wind farm is located in the North Sea. The park consists of 54 wind turbines and can supply around 600,000 Belgian households with electricity. 

If you did not find the answers you were looking for or if you have any comments, please share them by filling out the form F.A.Q. at the end of the section.

When is the project auction expected?

The tender is planned for third quarter of 2023. 

How will the auction winner be determined?

[31-01-2023] The Government of the Republic of Lithuania, by its Resolution No 1049 of 19 October 2022, has set criteria and requirements for potential auction participants. The National Commission for Energy Control and Prices (NCC) plans to approve in Q1 2023 a description of the procedure for organising the tender and the issuance of permits, which will set out the process for organising the tender and the evaluation of bids. 

I would like to ask a question concerning preparation of financial statement for the auction. As I understand, one of the requirements of participation in auction is preparation of financial statements approved by an independent auditor for the last three years. I would like to ask for information on how exactly the financial statements of foreign entities should be presented. Should the data be presented in Euro? If so, what exchange rate should be used? How should the documents be prepared - should all the data in statements be presented in Euro or data concerning annual income or amount of equity would be enough? Should data in Euro currency be prepared as a separate document?

In accordance with Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No 1049 “On the Approval of the Requirements for Persons Applying for and Obtaining the Right to Develop and Operate Renewable Energy Power Stations in the Offshore Area and the Description of the Reimbursement of the Costs of Studies and Other Activities in the Offshore Area” of 19 October 2022, in order to assess whether the tenderer meets the financial capacity requirements set out in point 32 of the Regulations, the tenderer must submit to the Council financial statements for the last 3 calendar years, certified by an independent auditor (for a natural person - the declarations of personal income and assets for the last 3 calendar years).

In cases where the financial statements and/or the declarations of personal income and assets do not contain information on annual revenue, the amount of own capital and/or the amount of own assets, other documents supporting this information or references to national databases in any of the Member States, where the requested information can be consulted, must be provided. Point 35 of this legal act stipulates that the documents submitted to the National Energy Regulatory Council which have been prepared and/or issued in foreign countries must comply with the requirements of the Description of the Procedure for the Organisation of Tenders and the Issuance of Permits.

The Description of the Procedure for the Organisation of Tenders and the Issuance of Permits by the National Energy Regulatory Council should specify the requirements for documents supporting financial experience, including the exchange rate used for currency conversion. The responsible authorities assess the need to adjust also the provisions of Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No 1049 of 19 October 2022, specifying the requirements for the content of the documents justifying financial experience.

Tender participant must submit an implementation plan for the development of an offshore wind farm and its related infrastructure. Is there a possibility for the tender winner to change this plan during the offshore wind farm project construction implementation process?

According to the Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt)) Article No. 22 Part No. 22 Point No. 5: Obligations of tender winner may be changed upon the written agreement of the Lithuanian Energy Agency.

What agreements determine the relationship between the investor and state?

The relationship will be defined by the respective contracts, which will include obligations.

For example it is already clear that Palanga city municipality will be paid a fee of 1 EUR/MWh for the projects of local communities. The developer of the park would be obliged to pay a fee based on the amount of electricity generated and fed into the grid. It is planned that about 3 million euros will be paid per year.

What are the deadlines for tender organizing procedures and proposal submiting terms?

According to the Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt)) Article No.22 Part No. 9: tender procedure should last 180 calendar days from the date of publication of the information about the planned tender on the website of the Regulator. The registration of tenderers lasts 90 calendar days from the date of publication of the information about the planned tender. The Regulator determines the winner of the tender within 60 calendar days from the end of the registration of tender participants. This term can be extended by 30 calendar days on the grounds of the tender committee. It will be specified whether national security verification procedures will be included in the 180 calendric days.

What certificates should a tender participant provide before entering the tender to the regulator or any other government institution?

Requirements for tender participants and the documents and commitments submitted by them are described in Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt)), 2022-10-19 Government Resolution No. 1049 (1049 Dėl Reikalavimų asmenims, siekiantiems įgyti bei įgijusiems teisę plėtoti ir eksploatuoti atsinau... (lrs.lt)) an by the description of the procedure for organizing tender and issuing permits, which is in preparation procedure by Regulator.

What is the upper limit for the compensation for ensuring the perfomance of National security functions?

According to Article No. 49, Part No. 9, of the Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt)) tender winner should pay compensation for ensuring the performance of national security functions. The amount of this compensation is 18 euros per kilowatt of offshore wind capacity installed. The winner of the tender will also have to provide the guarantee of fulfilment of this obligation. No additional compensation supplements are established by legislation.

The tender winner must ensure the inclusion of small and medium-sized enterprises during the period of offshore wind farm and related infrastructure construction and operation. Please comment on the terms of engagement for these companies and penalties for not complying with this requirement?

2022-10-19 Government Resolution No 1049 (1049 Dėl Reikalavimų asmenims, siekiantiems įgyti bei įgijusiems teisę plėtoti ir eksploatuoti atsinau... (lrs.lt)) Articles Nos. 26 and 27 set the requirement that the tender participant should ensure that small and medium sized enterprises are involved during the period of offshore wind farm and related infrastructure construction performance of works and services (3% of their value during the entire period of their execution) and operation performance of works and services (10% of their value during the entire period of their execution). Articles 53.5 and 53.6 of the same resolution set out the fines that the tender winner will have to pay if it does not comply with the requirements related to the inclusion of small and medium-sized enterprises during the period of offshore wind farm and related infrastructure construction and operation.

The expenses incurred for the surveys and other preparatory works provided by state institutions will have to be compensated by the tender winner. When are these expenses going to be evaluated and published?

According to Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt) Article No. 22, Part No. 9, the results of the survey and other preparatory documents carried out on the order of state institutions, and the expenses related to their preparation, which will have to be compensated by tender winner, should be publicly announced within 2 working days from the day of their receipt, but no later than the announcement of the information about the planned tender.

What are the requirements for development fee payment?

According to 2022-10-19 Government Resolution No. 1049 (1049 Dėl Reikalavimų asmenims, siekiantiems įgyti bei įgijusiems teisę plėtoti ir eksploatuoti atsinau... (lrs.lt)) Article No. 55, the development fee must be paid within 5 years from the date of the permit to produce electricity. The development fee will have to be paid annually in equal amounts.

Will the documents submitted by tenderers have to be in Lithuanian? Will the currency of the documents supporting the financial experience requirements have to be in euros? If the tenderer operates in a country with a different currency, what exchange rate should be used in the documents submitted to the tendering authority in support of the financial experience requirements?

[31-01-2023] Tenderers will be required to submit to the organiser documents supporting their financial experience and other documents justifying the fulfilment of the legal requirements in Lithuanian or with a translation into Lithuanian. The information provided in the documents supporting the financial capacity requirements does not have to be in euro, but the foreign currency used in the documents submitted will be converted into euro for the purpose of assessing the eligibility of the Tenderer. The National Energy Regulatory Council’s description of the procedure for organising tenders and issuing authorisations will specify the requirements for documents supporting financial experience, including the exchange rate for currency conversion.

Is it possible to draw up a thematic table showing the financial commitments made by the offshore wind park developer under the different pieces of legislation?

[31-01-2023] Yes, a thematic table of financial commitments by an offshore wind park developer is also planned to be prepared and made public. Please follow the information on the Offshorewind.lt website.

When is the description of the procedure for organising tenders and issuing permits to be approved by the National Energy Regulatory Council?

[31-01-2023] The National Energy Regulatory Council plans to approve the description of the procedure for organising tenders and issuing permits in Q1 of 2023.

When does the National Energy Regulatory Council plan to publish the methodology for determining the maximum transaction price?

[31-01-2023] Pursuant to Point 14 of Article 22 of the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania (the wording of the Article will enter into force two months after the approval of the European Commission) (XI-1375 Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania (lrs.lt)), the National Energy Regulatory Council shall prepare and publish the information necessary to determine the maximum possible transaction price one month before the date of publication of the maximum possible transaction price, and shall determine and publish the maximum possible transaction price and the lowest threshold 6 months before the date of publication of the information on the tender. In line with this provision of the law, the National Energy Regulatory Council plans to publish the methodology for establishing the maximum transaction price in February 2023.

When is the offshore wind park infrastructure corridor planned to be specified?

[31-01-2023] The infrastructure corridor for the connection of the offshore wind park will be determined by the decisions of the Engineering Infrastructure Development Plan for the territories necessary for the connection of the power plants using renewable energy sources planned to be developed in the part(s) of the territorial sea of the Republic of Lithuania and/or the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Lithuania in the Baltic Sea to the electricity transmission grid. The concept of this development plan is expected to be approved in October 2023 and the solutions will be approved in Q3 2024.

Please advise how the transfer of rights to land for the construction and operation of connection infrastructure to the holder of the development and operation permit will be implemented?

[31-01-2023] Discussions are currently underway between the responsible public authorities to ensure the development of the engineering infrastructure and operational activities for the future offshore wind park tender winner. It is not yet possible to give a concrete answer on what basis and in what form the offshore wind developer will be granted the land rights to construct and operate the offshore wind infrastructure.

Please advise whether the State will provide guarantees on the granting of rights to the holder of a development and operation permit for the construction and operation of the connection infrastructure in a timely manner and to an adequate and sufficient extent to obtain a building permit and to operate the infrastructure properly?

[31-01-2023] Discussions are currently underway between the responsible public authorities to ensure the development of the engineering infrastructure and operational activities for the future offshore wind park tender winner. We do not yet have a concrete answer as to whether the State will provide guarantees on the granting of rights for the construction and operation of the connection infrastructure.

Please advise whether, if necessary, the State also grants (will also grant) land rights to land needed only during the construction period on plots adjacent to the route?

[31-01-2023] The solutions of the Engineering Infrastructure Development Plan will establish easements and other land use solutions to ensure the possibility of constructing and operating engineering infrastructure within the boundaries of the engineering infrastructure corridor defined in the special plan. If the successful tenderer’s sites and (presumably) transferred land rights, provided by the special plan, are insufficient for the development of the infrastructure, it will be up to the offshore wind power plant developer to secure the onshore use of the sites for its own purposes, for the implementation of the offshore wind infrastructure, at its own cost and expense.

Please advise whether the developer will have to compensate the transmission system operator for the funds paid by the transmission system operator to the landowners as compensation for the establishment of land rights, in the scope of the territorial planning and related services for the connection infrastructure (project of special national interest) that has been initiated? If so, how much of this will have to be reimbursed by the developer and when is this information expected to be published?

[31-01-2023] Given that the responsible public authorities are currently in discussions on the possibility of providing the development and operation of the engineering infrastructure to the future winner of the tender organised by the National Energy Regulatory Council, it is not yet possible to provide an answer to this question.

In the event that the developer is allowed to use the Harmony Link corridor and the easements established for the benefit of the transmission system operator, the area subject to the special land use conditions for the developer’s engineering infrastructure will fall within the area of the easements established for the benefit of the transmission system operator. In such a case, will the developer have to compensate the landowners for the constraints resulting from the imposition of special land use conditions on the developer’s infrastructure (the interconnection), when the transmission system operator will have already compensated the landowners for the imposition of the easements in the Harmony Link project and thus will have compensated the landowners for the land use constraints that resulted?

[31-01-2023] The planned position of offshore wind park interconnection corridors has not yet been specified. In order to plan the corridor, the preparation of a special territorial planning document for the interconnection corridor has been initiated. It should be noted that in accordance with Paragraph 5 of Article 13 of the Law on Special Land Use Conditions, no compensation shall be payable where the same or different restrictions have been compensated for, provided that the area (part thereof), the application of restrictions arising from the determination of which was compensated, coincides with the newly established area (part thereof) referred to in this Law. Paragraph 4 of Article 75 of the Law on Energy of the Republic of Lithuania stipulates that the procedure for the maintenance, repair, reconstruction and modernisation of the electricity grids connecting power plants using renewable energy sources with the onshore grids shall be established by mutual agreement between the holder of the permit for the development and operation and the grid operators.

In the cases referred to in Point 6 of Paragraph 5 of Article 27 of Law on Construction, a contract, consent or agreement with the owner or manager of the land plot (territory) or documents confirming the establishment of an easement (in the case of engineering structures) must be submitted to obtain a building permit. Please clarify how the holder of the development and operation permit will be issued with a building permit for engineering structures if the holder of the development and operation permit uses the easements established for the benefit of the transmission system operator, and therefore does not have a contract, consent or agreement with the owner or manager of the land plot (territory), and does not have the documents confirming the establishment of the easement for his benefit, as the possession of such documents is not necessary to exercise the right provided for in Paragraph 4 of Article 75 of the Law on Electricity?

[31-01-2023] This issue is within the remit of the Ministry of the Environment and the State Territorial Planning and Construction Inspectorate, and we will update our response accordingly once we have received responses from these institutions.

Please clarify whether the holder of the development and operation permit will be able to register the ownership of the electricity network in the Real Estate Register, given that the holder of the permit will not have any rights to the land on which the electricity network is to be built, either ownership, lease or easement, when the easement established for the benefit of the transmission system operator will be used, in accordance with Paragraph 4 of Article 75 of the Law on Electricity?

[31-01-2023] This issue is within the remit of the Ministry of the Environment and the State Territorial Planning and Construction Inspectorate, and we will update our response accordingly once we have received responses from these institutions.

What construction and equipment restrictions apply to the project?

The parameters are provided by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment (SEA).

Whether the supplier of offshore wind farms, cables, foundations, etc. has to be from a NATO, EU, OECD, EEC member state, or can it be, for example, from China?

[2023-04-07] Pursuant to Paragraph 35.3 of the Description of the requirements for persons applying for and obtaining the right to develop and operate renewable energy power plants in the maritime area and the procedure for reimbursement of the costs of surveys and other activities in the maritime area (hereinafter referred to as the "Description"), approved by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 1049 dated 19 October 2022 (new wording as of 21 March 2023), the tenderer shall provide an undertaking to the State Energy Regulatory Council (hereinafter referred to as 'the Council') that the components referred to in Paragraph 34.1 of the Description will be will be supplied and manufactured by companies that meet the criteria for European and transatlantic integration . Paragraph 34.1 of the Description states that the tenderer must provide the Council with information on when the main contracts (for the acquisition and execution of works for the installation of wind farms, the internal wiring of the electricity grid between the wind farms, the installation of an offshore transformer substation and the acquisition of the equipment and works required for its connection to the onshore electricity grid) are planned to be signed with the contractors and suppliers. Please also be informed that the criteria for European and transatlantic integration, as provided for in Article 4 of the Constitutional Law on the Implementation of Article 47(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania. Please note that if the supplier/manufacturer of at least one of the components referred to in Paragraph 34.1 of the Description is registered in China, the tenderer would be considered to be in breach of its commitments.

What connection point is provided on land?

The connection of the first offshore wind farm will be connected to the Darbėnai switchyard. The Infrastructure Study, which will be carried out in the II quarter of 2023, will answer more about the technological and technical parameters.

Where can be found a draft Letter of Intent, that a potential Offshorewind farm developer must sign with Litgrid?

[23 03 24] The State Energy Regulatory Council approved a description of the procedure for using energy transmission networks on March 6, 2023, by Order No. O3E-254.

This legislative act includes a sample letter of intent that should be signed by AB Litgrid and any participants in a tender for the use of marine territory for the development and operation of wind farms (Annex No. 10).

For further information on this legal act's location, please visit the website at: O3E-254 Dėl LITGRID AB pasinaudojimo elektros perdavimo tinklais tvarkos aprašo tvirtinimo (teisesakturegistras.lt)

Please clarify whether the TSO requires the possibility to control and monitor the parameters of the offshore wind farm (hereinafter referred to as the Wind Farm) directly from the TSO's control room. If so, please clarify in the draft that the control and parameter monitoring of the wind farm will only be carried out through the manufacturer's control centre or the manufacturer's control system, and that the TSO will only be able to exercise direct control of the wind farm under exceptional and pre-agreed with the manufacturer conditions in the event of an emergency or extreme situation on the electricity system (e.g. isolated operation, etc.).

[2023-03-20] The TSO requires the ability to manage and control the parameters of the offshore wind farm directly from the TSO's dispatching system. The procedure and the scope of the tele-information exchange with the transmission system operator shall be agreed in the context of the electricity transmission service contract. The TSO shall be able to perform the management and parameter control of the wind farm in both normal and emergency mode of the transmission system. In case the owner of the off-shore wind plant decides to install a managed control centre or a manufacturer's control system, there must be provision for switching of control rights, i.e., only one control system at a time will be able to control the wind farm and to change the parameters of the wind farm.

Please clarify whether the wind farm is to be subject to the requirement to install an automated system for limiting the power generated by the power plant, which would allow the power plant's generation to be operationally limited according to the parameters monitored by the electricity grid? If so, who would impose these limitations? Would the limitation parameters be pre-integrated into the wind farm's control system or would they be applied based on real-time information/situation from the TSO's control system? Who would send signals to the automated system, by what means, and what agreement would set out the requirements and conditions for the management, accounting and control of the limitations?

[2023-03-20] The wind farm is not subject to the requirement to install an automated power curtailment system for the power generated by the power plant, but Chapter 23, Section 23, Clauses 21.15 - 21.21 of the Preliminary Conditions for Connection specify the requirements for an emergency power control system with a response time of no more than 100 ms, i.e., the off-shore wind plant must be equipped with at least 4 binary inputs to accept external control commands from the TSO facilities.  

Provision shall also be made for active power limitation upon receipt of a control command from the TSO's dispatching control system, as provided for in Section 23, Clause 14.6, line 3 of the table of the Preliminary Conditions for Connection. 

The terms and conditions for the exchange, accounting and control of tele-information with the transmission system operator shall be laid down in the electricity transmission service contract.

Please clarify the limits of responsibility and the location of the measuring equipment. Will the metering transformers be located before or after the circuit breaker (CB)? See diagram 1 (page 2). 

[2023-03-20] The location of the metering transformers shall be selected and agreed during the preparation of the technical design (see Preliminary Conditions for Connection, Chapter 8, Clause 18).

Please clarify who will own the circuit breaker (CB) planned for the Darbėnai switchyard?

[2023-03-20] All the facilities on the LITGRID AB side of the property line shown in the diagram of the connection conditions will belong to LITGRID AB, while all the facilities on the other side of the property line will belong to the Manufacturer: 

The draft Preliminary Conditions for Connection does not contain requirements for signals and statuses from the TSO to the wind farm management system. Please specify in which document/format the requirements for data exchange and communication between TSO and manufacturer will be defined?

[2023-03-20] The volumes and statuses of TSO signals to the wind farm management system should be determined according to the demand of the wind farm operator. The TSO shall apply the requirements for signals and statuses that are necessary to ensure the TSO's ability to manage and control the wind farm parameters. The procedure for the exchange of signals and statuses with the TSO and the scope of the exchange of signals and statuses between the TSO and the wind farm operator shall be agreed in the context of the electricity transmission service contract. The data exchange volumes will be specified in the transmission service contract.

In the view of the Company and its partners, the requirements of Chapter 23 (e.g., 11.2 and 11.3) could potentially not be implemented by offshore wind turbine manufacturers. Please clarify this point and justify why it is planned to adopt such requirements. Please also explain the difference between these requirements and the requirements set out in clause 12.9.4 of the same chapter.

[2023-03-20] Pursuant to Article 6(1) of COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2016/631 of 14 April 2016 on a network code laying down requirements for the connection of generators to the electricity grid, taking into account the fact that the point of connection is onshore, the requirements for the connection of an offshore wind power plant shall be the same as the requirements for the connection of a generating module installed onshore.  

Requirements 11.2 and 11.3 are established in accordance with the Resolution of the State Energy Regulatory Board No O3E-1467 of 24 October 2022 ‘On the approval of the parameters established in accordance with the European Commission Regulation No 2016/631 of 14 April 2016 laying down the requirements for the connection of generators to the electricity grid’ and in accordance with the Resolution of the State Energy Regulatory Board No O3E-138 of 7 May 2019 ‘On the approval of the general technical specifications established in accordance with the European Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/1447 of 26 August 2016 on the network code laying down the requirements for the connection to the grid of high-voltage direct current systems and DC-connected modules of a fleet of power plants’. 

Requirements 11.2 and 11.3 are for the operation of the offshore wind plant during disturbances, while requirement 12.9.4 is for the continuous control of voltage and reactive power. 

Please justify the basis for the for the Information Transmission Availability requirement (see Section 21(4)).

[2023-03-20] The TSO clarifies the requirement in Section 21(4) for the Information Transmission Availability Rate and sets it to 99.9% per year. We would like to stress that this indicator does not include periods of time when the equipment responsible for providing the information is under repair or maintenance. This level of requirement is applied to offshore wind plant in order to ensure the performance of the TSO's functions. 

Please specify the active power response requirement (see section 21). The capacity of the wind farm can be increased and decreased, but it is necessary to take into account the fact that the increase in active capacity depends on the availability of wind.

[2023-03-20] Chapter 21 does not contain any requirements related to the increase/decrease of active power, but the TSO considers that the comment is addressed to Chapter 23 and provides an explanation to it. The capacity of an offshore wind plant may be increased in case there is a limitation of the active capacity from the active capacity available for generation. In this case, the power to be generated into the grid will be reduced by that limitation, thus allowing for the possibility to raise the power to be generated to the level that is available under the wind conditions. In any case, the maximum generation of the offshore wind plant will not be higher than the available wind speed. 

Please clarify whether the values in Section 23(5) can already be used for wind farm design and other studies, or whether these values are subject to change?

[2023-03-20] The values in Section 23(5) are correct. The calculations have been carried out with a forward-looking perspective in assessing possible changes in the transmission network. The parameters used to calculate the short circuit currents have been used as a preliminary estimate, therefore short circuit recalculations will be carried out in the detailed design of the overhead lines and the short circuit currents and equivalents may differ from those provided, the short circuit parameters should be adjusted when detailed design of the offshore wind plant starts. 

The draft Preliminary Conditions for Connection uses XX/220kV or 220kV/330kV frequency solutions. The final technical solutions for the interconnection infrastructure will have to be selected by the wind farm developer. In this respect, do we understand correctly that the frequency solutions used in the draft Preliminary Conditions for Connection at XX/220kV or 220kV/330kV are illustrative and do not limit the developer's ability to choose other final technical solutions, e.g., equipment or cables of 275kV or other voltage.

[2023-03-20] As these facilities will remain in the ownership of the investor, the XX/220kV or 220kV/330kV solutions used in the draft Preliminary Conditions for Connection are illustrative and do not limit the developer's ability to choose other final technical solutions, e.g., equipment or cables of 275kV or other voltage.

Given the short timeframe of this consultation and the fact that some developers or technology providers can only assess the information in the draft Preliminary Conditions for Connection in English, please allow for further additional consultation and adjustment of the terms and conditions after the publication of the official English translation of the draft IPS (prior to the signing of the Letters of Intent (LoIs) with those intending to tender for the development and operation permit).

[2023-03-20] The preliminary conditions for connection are planned to be translated into English, but this will take time.

Taking into account the deadline set by the Law according to which the TSO shall publish the preliminary conditions for the connection of a power plant to the energy grid and the draft Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania published in the information system of draft legal acts, which foresees that the information on the tender for the permit for the development and operation will be published by 30 March 2023, on its website within 5 calendar days after the date of entry into force of the said Law, please inform us about the date of the publication of the preliminary conditions for the connection intended for the tender referred to in this draft Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.

[2023-03-20] We plan to announce the preliminary connection conditions for Phase II within 5 calendar days of the approval of the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.

It would be preferable to have a binding commitment by the TSO to prepare their connection point until the start of the electricity production date identified in the project plan by the auction winner in the grid connection agreement.

[24-02-2023] Please note that the Letter of Intent which is determined by the Law on Electricity and the Law on Renewable Energy and signed between the transmission system operator and a potential producer is a binding document for both parties. It sets binding obligations for both parties: the potential producer is obliged to complete the offshore wind farm project and the operator is obliged to complete the connection within the term specified in this document.

Is there space in Darbėnai substation for connecting more than 2x700MW offshore wind parks?

[24-02-2023] No. The connection is planned for the two offshore wind farms which are specified in the acting Law on Renewable Energy and relevant decisions of the Government.

Is it the right understanding that 220kV to 330 kV substation should be built on the land not provided by the TSO or state by the auction winner?

[24-02-2023] Yes, the understanding is right.

We would like to raise question regarding potential delays in connecting offshore wind farms related to the synchronization process with the EU. It is stated that in parallel with the offshore wind farm connection projects, the Lithuanian grid synchronization project with the EU is being implemented. In the case of synchronization project priorities, who will be responsible for any delays of offshore wind farm connection projects?

[24-02-2023] Please note that the Darbėnai substation project is a part of the Synchronization program ant it’s timelines are an integral part of the Synchronization program.

Who will be responsible for any delays in connecting an offshore wind farm to the grid? Will the developer be compensated for unplanned disconnection and delays?

[24-02-2023] The Letter of Intent which is signed between the transmission system operator and a potential producer sets binding obligations for both parties: the potential producer is obliged to complete the wind farm project and the operator is obliged to complete the connection within the term specified in the Letter of Intent. 

Also, the Connection Agreement (bilateral or three-party based on selection of the potential producer) will confirm connection terms. Any dispute of the parties related to the Connection Agreement will be solved by negotiations, and in case of ultimate disagreement will be solved in courts of the Republic of Lithuania.

Also, in the event of a collision in the schedules of offshore wind farms and Electricity System Synchronization project of the Critical Interest, which entity will decide on priorities? Will Litgrid AB be the decision maker in this case?

[24-02-2023] Please note that the Darbėnai substation project is a part of the Synchronization program ant it’s timelines are an integral part of the Synchronization program.

Are the minimum and maximum short-circuit capacities given in the table belowChapter 23, Point 5 of the Conditions) correct (please note the second column for current)?

[2023-02-23] Yes, the minimum and maximum short circuit capacities in the table are correct. The calculations have been made with a forward looking perspective, taking into account possible changes in the transmission network.

In view of the provisions of Article 15(2)(d)(vii) of the European Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/631, we would like to enquire whether the value of 30 minutes indicated in Point 9.9 of Chapter 23 of the Conditions is correct?

[2023-02-23] Yes, the value of 30 minutes is correct.

Taking into account the provisions of Point 10 of Chapter 23 of the Conditions, what is the expected amount of (kinetic) energy and for what period of time?

[2023-02-23] The synthetic inertia function must be fully activated within a time period not exceeding 500ms. If the time to fully activate the active power response is longer than 500ms, then a clear justification for the longer time required shall be provided to the TSO. The active power response to a frequency drop shall be at least 10% of the installed power and the power shall be maintained for at least 10 seconds. The detailed algorithm and parameters for the operation of the synthetic inertia shall be agreed with the TSO.

When and where will the park connection conditions and requirements be presented?

Pursuant to Article 22, Part 11 of the Law on Renewable Energy of the Republic of Lithuania: permits for development and operation are issued in accordance with the procedure and conditions established by the law to natural persons with the right to reside in the Republic of Lithuania, or to legal persons established in the Republic of Lithuania, legal entities of other member states or divisions of other organizations established in the Republic of Lithuania In the Republic:

1) who are recognized as tender winners in accordance with the procedure established in paragraph 5 of this article;

2) who have fulfilled obligations related to the payment of taxes, including social insurance contributions. A person is considered to have fulfilled his obligations related to the payment of taxes, including social insurance contributions, if the amount of his outstanding obligations is less than 50 euros;

3) for which the bankruptcy, reorganization and/or liquidation procedure has not been initiated;

4) who undertake to cover the costs of connecting to electricity transmission networks in the land area with their own funds and assume responsibility for the imbalance caused by the electricity produced.

The electricity transmission system operator will announce this on its website in the third quarter of 2023.

What are the technical requirements and limitations applied to energy supply when connecting the park?

Pursuant to Article 22, Part 11 of the Law on Renewable Energy of the Republic of Lithuania: permits for development and operation are issued in accordance with the procedure and conditions established by the law to natural persons with the right to reside in the Republic of Lithuania, or to legal persons established in the Republic of Lithuania, legal entities of other member states or divisions of other organizations established in the Republic of Lithuania In the Republic:

1) who are recognized as tender winners in accordance with the procedure established in paragraph 5 of this article;

2) who have fulfilled obligations related to the payment of taxes, including social insurance contributions. A person is considered to have fulfilled his obligations related to the payment of taxes, including social insurance contributions, if the amount of his outstanding obligations is less than 50 euros;

3) for which the bankruptcy, reorganization and/or liquidation procedure has not been initiated;

4) who undertake to cover the costs of connecting to electricity transmission networks in the land area with their own funds and assume responsibility for the imbalance caused by the electricity produced.

The electricity transmission system operator will announce this on its website in the third quarter of 2023.

When are the preliminary connection conditions planned to be made public?

[31-01-2023] The draft preliminary connection conditions, drafted by AB Litgrid, are planned to be made public in February 2023. The final connection conditions are planned to be approved and published by 1 March 2023.

Once a person has obtained a development and operation permit, they will be required to obtain a building permit within 3 years of obtaining the development and operation permit. Does this term only include obtaining a building permit for the power plant itself or also for the engineering network - the interconnection?

[31-01-2023] The Law on Energy from Renewable Sources obliges a person who has obtained a development and operation permit to obtain a building permit within 3 years of obtaining the development and operation permit, both for the construction of an offshore wind park and for the construction of the associated infrastructure. If a person develops separate construction projects rather than a single project after obtaining a development and operation permit, the offshore wind power plant developer will have to obtain all the necessary building permits within 3 years from the date of obtaining the development and operation permit. We would like to point out that the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources also provides for the possibility of extending the deadline due to the actions of the State, other persons or force majeure.

Please confirm that the connection point for both offshore wind parks is to be located at Darbėnai substation?

[31-01-2023] Currently, the connection point of the offshore wind parks is the same - the Darbėnai substation, 330 kV switchyard owned by “Litgrid”.

Please advise when the construction and/or adaptation of the Darbėnai substation for the connection of offshore wind parks is expected to be completed?

[31-01-2023] The Darbėnai substation is scheduled for completion in 2025. To ensure the connection of the offshore wind parks, the design and construction of the extension of the 330 kV switchyard at Darbėnai substation will need to be completed. The developer(s) of the offshore wind park(s) will be responsible for financing the implementation of the development of the Darbėnai 330 kV switchyard. The technical requirements for the development of the Darbėnai switchyard will be set out in the preliminary connection conditions prepared by “Litgrid”.

Please advise whether the connection of the wind power plants to the Darbėnai substation will require any time-consuming and planning-intensive procedures in the area assigned to the transmission system operator, e.g. new EIA screening for the Darbėnai switchyard, adjustments to the territorial planning documents, or any other procedures such as planning of the new overhead or underground transmission grid sites, etc.?

[31-01-2023] “Litgrid” will ensure that the requirements for the development of the Darbėnai 330 kV switchyard, as specified in their connection conditions, are not a reason for the developer not being able to fulfil its obligations to the State. “Litgrid” will ensure that the transmission system development projects required for the operation of the offshore wind parks will be implemented within the timeframe foreseen in the project plans, i.e. by the end of 2025.

Please advise whether the Darbėnai substation site has intended space for the developer’s facilities? If so, what will the maximum size and the conditions for using it be?

[31-01-2023] Currently, the land plot owned by “Litgrid” intended for the Darbėnai substation includes an area for the development of a 330 kV switchyard, however the area for the offshore wind park developer’s facilities is not included.

Please advise whether the connection of the first or the second offshore wind park (with a total generation capacity of 1.4 GW) will require additional grid development, beyond the current 10-year grid development plan of the transmission system operator, and the related additional investments? If additional network expansion will be required, can you give an indication of the preliminary scope, timetable and potential investment for this work?

[31-01-2023] According to the assessment of the transmission network operator “Litgrid”, the implementation of the onshore electricity transmission network development projects envisaged in the 10-year grid development plan will ensure the capacity and stability of the transmission system, taking into account the operation of offshore wind parks with a generating capacity of 1.4 GW. “Litgrid” will carry out the development of the onshore transmission network on its own resources and at its own expense. The construction of the electricity transmission networks needed to ensure the reliability of the electricity produced by offshore wind power plants is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Will the conditions for connection and the expected costs to be reimbursed by the transmission system operator be similar for the connection of the first offshore wind park with a generating capacity of 700 MW and for the connection of the second offshore wind park?

[31-01-2023] According to the preliminary assessment, the requirements and scope of the Darbėnai switchyard development, as specified in the preliminary connection conditions, will not be substantially different for the development of the first offshore wind park and the second one.

Please advise whether other necessary infrastructure, such as access roads, will be planned in the scope of the spatial planning for the connection and related infrastructure? Will the land needed by the developer be reserved and made available?

[31-01-2023] The offshore wind park engineering infrastructure development plan to be commissioned by the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania will provide areas for access roads. Discussions between the responsible authorities are currently taking place regarding the procedures and conditions for the transfer of the land needed for the construction and operation of offshore wind park infrastructure to the developer.

Please confirm that the developer will not be required to reimburse any costs of transmission network expansion or other changes to the transmission network, other than the possible costs of developing an onshore transformer substation to connect these power plants? Also, what is the estimated amount of these costs and when will they be announced?

[31-01-2023] The developer will not have to reimburse the costs of the development of the onshore transmission network or any other replacement of the transmission network, with the exception of the development of the Darbėnai 330 kV switchyard. The technical requirements for the development of the Darbėnai switchyard will be set out in the preliminary connection conditions.

Please advise at what distance will the power plant connection infrastructure be able to be located to the Harmony Link cables and facilities?

[31-01-2023] It is not possible to give a specific answer to this question at this time. This distance will depend on the technical parameters and technological solutions of Harmony Link and the planned offshore wind power link and other facilities.

Please advise when the draft of the preliminary connection conditions, the final version of which must be published by 1 March 2023 at the latest, will be made available to those planning to participate in the tender? How will the consultation on the draft preliminary connection conditions be carried out?

[31-01-2023] “Litgrid” is currently working on the preliminary connection conditions. They will be presented on 9 February of this year during a market consultation. Information on the above market consultation can be found on the offshorewind.lt and litgrid.eu websites.

Please advise whether the Harmony Link cable corridor and the planned offshore wind power plant corridor (including easements and special land use conditions) will be able to be separated or partially overlap using the same land areas?

[31-01-2023] There is no legal prohibition against overlapping special land use conditions or easements for two different infrastructure assets. It should be noted that the exact location of the offshore wind power plant interconnection to the onshore network corridor is currently unknown. In order to plan the corridor, the preparation of a special territorial planning document for the interconnection corridor has been initiated.

Please advise whether the location of the Harmony Link and offshore wind power plant grid interconnection at Darbėnai substation is designed in such a way that the Harmony Link cables and the 3 cables of offshore wind power plant grid do not physically intersect along the entire length of the route, e.g. the wind power plant grid(s) would be located only north of the Harmony Link cable along the entire length of the route? If intersections are inevitable, how many of them and where could they be?

[31-01-2023] The locations of the offshore wind power plant interconnection corridor(s) will be specified during the preparation of the engineering infrastructure development plan. The concept for this plan is expected to be adopted in Q4 2023. It is likely that this question will be answered once the alternatives to the concept of the development plan have been developed.

Please advise whether the winner(s) of the development and operation permit will be able to use the Harmony Link corridor both on land and at sea? If so, which project would be prioritised and in what order? If so, what width of the corridor would be guaranteed for the developer’s infrastructure, and what width would be determined by the new territorial planning?

[31-01-2023] The locations of the offshore wind park interconnection corridor will be specified during the preparation of the engineering infrastructure development plan. The concept for this plan is expected to be adopted in Q4 2023.

Please advise how much money has been or is expected to be allocated to landowners for the establishment of the necessary land rights (easements or other rights) and the adaptation of restrictions (special land use conditions or other restrictions) for Harmony Link in Lithuania?

[31-01-2023] Information on the amount of compensation for restrictions on the use of private real estate due to the construction and operation of Harmony Link is not publicly available. Compensation is paid in accordance with the procedure laid down by the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania.

Please advise when the draft letter of intent for offshore wind tenderers will be ready?

[31-01-2023] The model form of the Letter of Intent, which is an annex to the Schedule of Procedures for the Use of Electricity Transmission Networks, is expected to be adopted in the near future.

Please advise when the Harmony Link onshore construction works are expected to be completed?

[2023-01-31] Įvertinus šiai dienai turimą informaciją, Harmony Link statybos darbus sausumoje planuojama baigti 2027 m.

Kada numatomi atlikti Harmony Link statybos darbai jūroje?

[31-01-2023] Based on the information available to date, Harmony Link onshore construction works are scheduled for completion in 2027.

Please advise what data from the studies carried out or being carried out for the Harmony Link project could be shared with potential tenderers or made public? If at all possible, when is this planned?

[31-01-2023] 1. Harmony Link Corridor seabed surveys;

2. 2. Harmony Link Strategic Environmental Assessment Report (2020-10-22_SPIA_REPORT final (litgrid.eu););
3. 3. Technical design of the Darbėnai switchyard (currently under preparation).
4. 4. “LITGIRD’s” 10-year network development plan (15_0.php (litgrid.eu)))
5. 5. Risk of ice fall for equipment.

The documents marked No 1, No 3 and No 5 will be submitted to the winner of the tender for the selection of the offshore wind park developer who has signed a confidentiality agreement with “Litgrid”.

With regard to the offshore wind power plant sites and the potential of their connection sites in relation to “Natura 2000” sites, please clarify, whether the development plan for the connection infrastructure will include a determination of the significance of the impact of the implementation of the plan on “Natura 2000” sites, to be agreed with the responsible authority, in accordance with the Order No D1-255 of the Minister of the Environment of the Republic of Lithuania of 22 May 2006 “On the Approval of a Description of the Procedure for Determining the Significance of the Implementation of Plans or Programmes and Planned Economic Activities for Established or Potential ‘Natura 2000’ Sites”?

[31-01-2023] The technical specification for the procurement of the special plan of offshore wind park interconnection includes a requirement for the service provider to carry out a strategic assessment of the impact on the environment. In accordance with Point 22 of Order No D1-255 of the Minister of the Environment of the Republic of Lithuania of 22 May 2006 “On the Approval of a Description of the Procedure for Determining the Significance of the Implementation of Plans or Programmes and Planned Economic Activities for Established or Potential ‘Natura 2000’ Sites”, in cases where an assessment of the plan or programme is required in accordance with points 7.1 and 7.2 of the Description of the Procedures for Strategic Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes, no determination of significance shall be carried out in accordance with the present Description of the Procedure. The significance of impacts on established or potential “Natura 2000” sites is determined through a mandatory Strategic Environmental Assessment.

In the course of the coordination of the offshore wind power plant EIA programme, the Environmental Protection Agency mentioned that since the location of the offshore wind power plant interconnection corridor is currently unknown, once the location is determined, the interconnection will be subject to an EIA screening procedure in accordance with the procedure laid down in the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment of the Proposed Economic Activity of the Republic of Lithuania. Please advise whether an environmental impact assessment screening procedure is foreseen before the approval of the territorial planning document for the connection infrastructure?

[31-01-2023] The list of publicly funded preparatory works to be carried out does not foresee a screening exercise for the environmental impact assessment related to the installation and operation of the offshore wind park electricity interconnection and related infrastructure, which will be owned by the offshore wind power plant developer. The developer and owner of the future infrastructure - the winner of the tender organised by the National Energy Regulatory Council - is responsible for making this screening.

The technical specification of the tender for the connection route includes seabed surveys. Please advise when consultations on the exact scope of the studies, qualitative and quantitative parameters, equipment to be used, etc. are foreseen? Please also inform us about the procedure and timing for making the results of these studies available to the tenderers or, as appropriate, the winners of the tenders for development and operation permits?

[31-01-2023] The technical specifications for the procurement of the seabed geophysical and geotechnical surveys of the infrastructure corridor have already been prepared and approved. They are the basis for public procurement, so there is no possibility to change the scope of the seabed surveys described in the technical specification, the requirements for quality parameters, the equipment to be used, etc. The seabed surveys of the interconnection corridor are planned to be made public as soon as they are completed. Geophysical seabed surveys of the interconnection corridor are planned to be completed in Q3 2023 and geotechnical surveys - in Q4 2023.

Where can I find information about EIA, sea and other studies?

Such information could be found in sections: for developers and environmental protection .

When will metocean monitoring data be made available?

If there are no unplanned disruptions, the semi-annual Metocean monitoring data will be published in February 2023, and the annual monitoring data will be published in August 2023. The procurement documents for Metocean Surveys, which set their scope, are here: eviesiejipirkimai.lt. Please continue to follow the relevant information.

Is it planned to organize a consultation meeting with potential developers of offshore wind power parks for geological drilling perfomance points?

In accordance with the current geological survey agreement, all seabed surveys planned to be carried out at the expense of the state in the first area of the offshore wind farm are planned to be completed in the Q1 of 2023. The locations of geological boreholes are already established, and consultations with potential developers of wind farms are currently not planned. Reports on the data from the studies carried out are published on the website (https://offshorewind.lt/en/for_developers/). The tender participants will be able to assess the content of the studies carried out and the need for additional studies, which would be carried out at their own expense. The procurement documents for geotechnical and geophysical seabed surveys, which set their scope, are here: eviesiejipirkimai.lt. Please continue to follow the relevant information.

When is the Environmental Impact Assessment report for the offshore wind park planned to be published?

[31-01-2023] The Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the offshore wind park is expected to be made public in February 2023.

When is the data on wind speeds and other meteorological parameters planned to be made public?

[31-01-2023] The collection of wind speeds and other meteorological data starts in July 2022. The 6-month wind speed and other meteorological data report, approved by the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania and meeting the quality criteria set out in the technical specification for the conduct of the studies, is planned to be published in February 2023. The 12-month data collection report is planned to be published in August 2023. In response to the demand for study data expressed by interested parties, interim study data is made available on the offshorewind.lt website (For developers - OffshoreWind.lt). The data in the published reports may contain deficiencies and inaccuracies, which will be corrected in the course of contractual obligations.

Is there a plan to publish the chronological plan for the publication of data from publicly funded studies in a more precise unit of time than quarters of the year?

[31-01-2023] The implementation and publicity plan for the preparatory work is updated as information becomes available. Where possible, the dates for publicising and implementing the results of the planned preparatory work will be adjusted and made more precise.

When is the geotechnical seabed survey of the wind park construction area scheduled to be published?

[31-01-2023] The reports of the geophysical shallow seismic and hydrographic surveys and the deep geophysical - seismic surveys carried out at on the site of the first wind park are available on the Offshorewind.lt website (For developers - OffshoreWind.lt). The report on the geotechnical seabed surveys carried out on the site of the first wind park is scheduled to be published in April 2023.

Please provide information on when the first wind and meteorological conditions data package will be published? As part of the pre-tender process, it is essential to obtain raw measurement data as soon as possible (e.g. on a monthly basis), as these data are crucial for the preparation of technical (e.g. foundation design, power plant layout, etc.), economic, environmental and other assumptions related to the project implementation, as well as for the preparation of the relevant modelling, calculations and other preparatory activities. In this context, please provide the data received on a monthly basis and update it at a later date if there is a need or if new circumstances arise.

[31-01-2023] Please be informed that the supplier of the measurements and analyses of wind speed, water and other meteorological parameters is contractually obliged to provide the results to the customer after 6 months and after 12 months. In view of the need of potential offshore wind power plant developers for periodic access to these data, the interim results have been published on the Offshorewind.lt website.

Please advise when the shallow (CPT) drilling will be carried out and when the results of the tests will be published?

[31-01-2023] The results of the laboratory tests of the deep (CPT) drilling performed in the area of the first offshore wind park are expected to be published in April 2023.

Please advise when the deep drilling will be carried out and when the results will be published?

[31-01-2023] The results of the laboratory tests of the deep (CPT) drilling performed in the area of the first offshore wind park are expected to be published in April 2023.

Please advise about the current procurement activities related to the offshore wind programme and what other procurements are foreseen in the future?

[31-01-2023] Procurement activities that are currently underway are as follow:

1. Preparation of a study on the implementation of wind park infrastructure in the Lithuanian maritime area and a technical specification for the interconnection of an offshore wind park with the onshore grid;
2. Consultancy services for the interconnection of wind parks to be developed, operated and connected to the onshore grid in Lithuania’s maritime territory;
3. Preparation of an Engineering Infrastructure Development Plan and related services for a project of special national interest;
4. Seabed surveys for the onshore wind park interconnection.

Please note that the list of public procurement contracts may be supplemented in the future as new circumstances emerge.

Please advise how and when participation in the process of preparing the study and the technical specification documents for the connection solutions will be made possible?

[31-01-2023] It is expected that the alternatives for the solutions of engineering infrastructure study will be ready in Q2 2023. The plan is to make them public and organise a consultation with stakeholders to discuss the alternatives.

Do we understand correctly that the results of the studies to be procured will be used in the preparation of, and will form an integral part of, the following documents of legal, technical and commercial significance? 1. Territorial planning document for offshore wind park connection infrastructure. 2. Preliminary conditions for the connection of a power plant to the energy grid, which set out the mandatory requirements for the construction, conversion and/or development of the energy grid, for the connection of the power plant referred to in the Government Resolution on the Development of Power Plants in the Maritime Area to the grids operated by the operator of the energy grids or for the provision of the other services provided for by the legislation, which are obliged to be published by law by the transmission system operator on 1 March 2023?

If the answer to the question is yes, we believe that the results of the studies may create technical constraints that would have legal, technical and commercial implications, and that persons declaring their intention to participate in the tender must therefore have the right to see the interim results of the intended studies and to provide comments at the earliest possible stage of the work. Please advise how will the participation of potential tenderers in the preparation of the study be organised?

[31-01-2023] The solutions to the studies will be publicised and stakeholder meetings will be organised. The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania will confirm the results of the planned studies after consultations with the market and representatives of interested institutions.

Stakeholders should also be involved in the identification of at least 3 technological alternatives for further detailed analysis and description, assessing whether the technological alternatives identified by the service provider are compatible with the needs of market participants and the technologies likely to be used. Please advise how will the participation of potential tenderers in the preparation of the study be organised?

[31-01-2023] The solutions of the studies will be publicised and market consultations will be organised. The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania will confirm the results of the planned studies after consultations with the market and representatives of interested institutions.

Please advise whether the studies will cover the compliance of the solutions (analysed both in the technology selection and the connection condition setting parts) with the requirements of the Network Codes?

[31-01-2023] The engineering infrastructure study will be coordinated with “Litgrid”, so the transmission network operator will have to ensure compliance with the network codes. The technical specification for the preparation of the offshore wind park interconnection to the onshore grid of studies and technical specifications for the implementation of infrastructure for wind parks to be developed, operated and connected to transmission grids in the Lithuanian maritime territory includes a requirement for the service provider: to develop technological alternatives and carry out a comparative analysis of them (e.g. equipment, systems and components required for the implementation of the alternative, their compatibility with the relevant equipment, systems and components of the Transmission Grids).

Please inform whether the studies will include an assessment of a certain level of production capacity to confirm that the production capacity required for the implementation of the technological alternatives under consideration will be available during the period of implementation of the connection project, e.g. 2025–2030?

[31-01-2023] The technical specification for the preparation of the offshore wind park interconnection to the onshore grid of studies and technical specifications for the implementation of infrastructure for wind parks to be developed, operated and connected to transmission grids in the Lithuanian maritime territory includes a requirement for the service provider: Analysis of the use of existing Transmission Grid equipment, systems and components to connect offshore wind power plants, Analysis of the need for reconstruction and/or construction of new equipment, systems and components.

Please advise whether the results of the studies will also cover aspects such as metering requirements and processes, behavioural conditions, reactive power, harmonics (filtering), ancillary services, frequency support, storm procedures, grid compliance measuring point, etc., communication protocols and other aspects that will be taken into account by the transmission system operator in the formulation of the preliminary conditions of grid connection to be published on 1 March 2023?

[31-01-2023] The technical specification requires the developer of infrastructure study to assess the aspects that will ensure the preparation, thoroughness and validity of the technical design/connection conditions. However, please note that the infrastructure study solutions may be prepared later than 1 March 2023.

Please advise whether the results of the study will include an assessment of the current state of the network (including at the time of connection) and proposals for the possible reinforcement of the networks (if the need is identified)?

[31-01-2023] The technical specification for the procurement of the infrastructure study includes a requirement for the study designer to assess the conditions of the transmission network equipment, systems and components, etc., and the need for the expansion/reconstruction of existing transmission system elements.

With regard to the result set out in Point 2 of Table 2 of the technical specification, please assess to what extent it is appropriate at this stage to draw up a preliminary technical specification setting out “qualification requirements for prospective designers and contractors of the wind park interconnector developer”. The developer should be free to choose the right solutions and the people to implement them. If the above result is used to identify certain constraints, it would be important for a potential developer to plan in advance for their implementation and to seek advice in advance.

[31-01-2023] The ownership boundaries of the offshore wind park interconnector and related infrastructure will be defined in “Litgrid’s” preliminary connection conditions. This result of the technical specification requirement can be used in the future, if necessary, to prepare procurement documentation for the network operator and the authorities.

Please advise if we understand correctly that the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania will have the possibility to order additional services related to these studies? For example, if new or additional assessments or analyses need to be carried out in response to new information or changes in technical or legal requirements.

[31-01-2023] The possibility of procuring additional services is not currently being considered in the absence of a justified need.

Could you provide a timetable for the execution of the infrastructure study to identify the technological and technical parameters for the connection and for the consultation of market participants?

[31-01-2023] As the successful tenderer has not yet been confirmed, the contract signed and the timetable for the services to be procured agreed, it is not possible to provide a timetable for the consultation of market participants. The consultation on the results of the infrastructure study will be published on the website of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania and on offshorewind.lt.

What legal acts regulate the construction and operation of a wind park?

You can find all the most important information about legislation in the legal environment section.

The state of Lithuania is preparing legislative amendment projects for the tendering opportunity for the second offshore wind farm. Maybe you can comment on the different conditions of the two tenders and the requirements for their participants?

[31-01-2023] In December 2021, the Seimas approved amendments to the laws on Energy from Renewable Sources and on Electricity, which set out the conditions for the development of renewable energy in Lithuania’s offshore area without support. The amendments to the laws aim to make the tendering procedures for the development of electricity generation capacity from renewable resources in the Baltic Sea as clear and fast as possible. You can find more information here.

Is there a requirement in the legislation for tender participants to sign a contract with TSO?

According to Article No. 22, Part No. 10, Point No. 5, of the Renewable Energy Law (XI-1375 Lietuvos Respublikos atsinaujinančių išteklių energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt), the tender participant must provide the letter of intent signed with the Lithuanian TSO (AB LITGRID)referred to in Article No. 22. Part No. 8 of the Law on Electricity (VIII-1881 Lietuvos Respublikos elektros energetikos įstatymas (lrs.lt)) and submit the guarantee of fulfilment of the obligations referred to in Article No. 211(1) part No. 1, which amount is 75 EUR for each kW of power allowed to be generated at the offshore wind farm.

When is the procedure for the demolition or dismantling of a power plant, established by the Government or a body authorised by it, to be adopted and made public?

[31-01-2023] It is planned that the description of the procedure for demolishing or dismantling the power plant will be adopted before the tender is launched. 

Is it planned to amend the Resolution No 697 of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania of 20 June 2020 “On Determining the Parts of the Territorial Sea of the Republic of Lithuania and/or the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Republic of Lithuania in the Baltic Sea in Which It Is Appropriate to Organise a Tender (Tenders) for the Development and Operation of Power Plants Using Renewable Energy Resources, and the Installed Capacities of These Power Plants”, by providing for the minimum installed capacity of the wind park and the maximum permitted generated capacity? If so, when are these amendments expected to be adopted?

[31-01-2023] The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Lithuania plans to prepare a draft amendment to this legal act and submit it for public consultation with interested institutions and entities. The legislative amendments are expected to be adopted before the call for tenders.

What are the consequences for the developer of an offshore wind park if it fails to comply with the requirements set out in Paragraph 13 of Article 22 of the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania to obtain a building permit within 3 years of obtaining a development and operation permit and/or to obtain a permit for electricity production within 6 years of obtaining a development and operation permit?

[31-01-2023] Pursuant to Paragraph 27 of Article 22 of the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania (the wording of the Article will enter into force two months after the approval of the European Commission) (XI-1375 Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania (lrs.lt)), the governmental authority may suspend the validity of the development and operation permit if the holder of the development and operation permit has violated the conditions for regulated activities set out in points 2 and 3 of Paragraph 25 of this Article. Pursuant to Point 2 of Paragraph 34 of Article 22 of the same Law, in cases where the holder of the development and operation permit has not obtained a building permit within 3 years from the date of obtaining the development and operation permit, unless the delay in fulfilling the terms and conditions of the activity and the obligations assumed is due to the acts or inactivity of the State, other persons or to circumstances of force majeure, for each day of delay, the holder shall pay a penalty calculated as EUR 0,0342/kW multiplied by the period from the date on which the holder of the development and operation permit should have obtained the building permit to the date on which the building permit is obtained, or the development and operating permit is withdrawn, on the grounds provided for in Paragraph 29 of this Article.

Paragraph 26 of Article 22 of the same Law stipulates that a period of 30 calendar days shall be set for the elimination of infringements. The National Energy Regulatory Council may also set a longer period of time for the elimination of infringements if this is necessary for objective reasons: for reasons beyond the control of the holder of the permit, such as actions or inactivity by the State, other persons or force majeure, the holder of the permit does not obtain a building permit or a permit to produce electricity within the time limits set out in Paragraph 25 of this Article.

Please advise when it is planned to establish the procedure for the demolition and dismantling of electricity networks and other infrastructure necessary for the connection of the power plant, and of the cases where the power plant and/or electricity networks and other infrastructure necessary for its connection may remain undemolished or undismantled, as provided for in Point 6 of Paragraph 9 of Article 16 of the Law on Electricity.

[31-01-2023] It is planned that the legislation governing the demolition and dismantling of the power plant will be in place by the date of the tender for the selection of the offshore wind park developer.

Please advise whether the demolition or dismantling of the power plant will have to start only after the expiry of the development and operation permit, i.e. after 41 years?

[31-01-2023] Pursuant to Point 6 of Paragraph 9 of Article 16 of the Law on Electricity, the Government shall determine the cases in which a power plant and/or the electricity grids and other infrastructure required for its connection may remain undemolished or undismantled. It is planned that the legislation governing the demolition and dismantling of the power plant will be in place by the date of the call for tenders for the offshore park developer and will be subject to public consultation with stakeholders.

Please advise if there is a timeframe for the demolition or dismantling of the power plants and related infrastructure? If so, what is it?

[31-01-2023] Pursuant to Point 6 of Paragraph 9 of Article 16 of the Law on Electricity, the procedure and timeframe for the demolition or dismantling of a power plant located in the territorial sea of the Republic of Lithuania and/or the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Lithuania in the Baltic Sea, as well as the procedure for the demolition and dismantling of the power grids and other infrastructure necessary for the connection of the power plant, shall be established by the Government. It is planned that the legislation governing the demolition and dismantling of the power plant will be in place by the date of the call for tenders for the offshore park developer and will be subject to public consultation with stakeholders.

What are the main project parameters?

The power supplied to the transmission network is 700MW.

Main characteristics of the territory:

occupied area – 136.39 km2; 

average depth – 35 meters; 

distance from Klaipėda seaport is from 38 kilometers; 

distance from the coast about 30 kilometers;

average wind speed is about 9 m/s (obtained by mathematical modeling (100 m above sea level)).

How will the offshore wind farm participate in the balancing services market by offering both balancing power and balancing electricity for trading? What share of the offshore wind farm will be used in the market for balancing services, i.e. in the power and energy segments?

[2023-04-07] The offshore wind farm is subject to the standard conditions for participation in the balancing market and the provision of ancillary services, as set out in the electricity market rules and the standard balancing service contract.

Is it planned to develop a methodology or other document that would specify the requirements set out in the Resolution No 1049 of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania of 19 October 2022 “On the Approval of the Requirements for Persons Applying for and Obtaining the Right to Develop and Operate Renewable Energy Power Plants in the Maritime Area and the Description of the Reimbursement of the Costs of Surveys and Other Activities in the Maritime Area” on the preparation of a plan for greenhouse gas emissions and/or the involvement of small and medium-sized companies in the implementation of the project and in the monitoring?

[31-01-2023] At present, there are no plans to prepare accompanying legal acts specifying the provisions of the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania. If you have specific questions about the implementation of the requirements set out in this legislation, please contact us by visiting offshorewind.lt: F.A.Q. – OffshoreWind.lt.

Given that the successful tenderer will be required to reimburse the costs of certain studies and other activities, please indicate the amounts that the successful tenderer will be required to reimburse to the State for each tender?

[31-01-2023] Please be informed that information on the public funds to be reimbursed by the winner of a tender organised by the National Energy Regulatory Council is currently being prepared. It is expected to be published by the end of Q1 2023.

Please advise whether any special taxes or charges (not applicable to other economic activities or onshore electricity generation) are foreseen in relation to the assets or activities to be created?

[31-01-2023] Currently, all taxes and charges are set out in the legislation in force in the Republic of Lithuania. It should be noted that specific compensations and costs may become apparent during the preparatory work for the infrastructure (when coordinating the Environmental Impact Assessment Report or preparing the special plan of the infrastructure) or during the design and construction phase.

Please advise whether there is a time limit from which the recipient of a development and operation permit must cease to use the maritime area?

[31-01-2023] Point 4 of Article 22 of the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources (the version of the Article, which enters into force 2 months after the approval of the European Commission in accordance with the provision of Paragraph 3 of Article 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union) stipulates that a part(s) of the Maritime Area shall be used for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy resources only if a permit for the use of the part(s) of the Maritime Area for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy resources has been granted by the National Energy Regulatory Council. It should be noted that the development and operation permit is granted for 41 years.

Pursuant to Point 6 of Paragraph 9 of Article 16 of the Law on Electricity, the procedure and timeframe for the demolition or dismantling of a power plant located in the territorial sea of the Republic of Lithuania and/or the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Lithuania in the Baltic Sea, as well as the procedure for the demolition and dismantling of the power grids and other infrastructure necessary for the connection of the power plant, shall be established by the Government. It is planned that the legislation governing the demolition and dismantling of the power plant will be in place by the date of the call for tenders for the offshore park developer and will be subject to public consultation with stakeholders.

If a group of persons acting in a joint capacity is planning to participate in the tender, with whom will the transmission system operator conclude a letter of intent, i.e. will there be: 1) one letter of intent with one of the persons forming the group. If so, with whom? 2) one letter of intent with all the persons forming the group; 3) separate letters of intent with each person forming the group (in proportion to the commitments made)?

[31-01-2023] Point 26 of the description of the procedure for the organisation of tenders for the use of the maritime territory for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy sources and the issuance of permits for the use of parts of the maritime territory for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy sources, prepared by the National Energy Regulatory Council, provides documents to be submitted separately by a group of persons acting on the basis agreement of joint activities and participating in the tender. The letter of intent signed with the transmission system operator is not included in the list of documents to be submitted by each of the persons operating on the basis of the joint agreement and participating in the tender.

Paragraph 11 of Article 22(11) of the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania allows groups of persons acting on the basis of an agreement on joint activities to participate in the tender;

 Point 41 of the Description of the Procedure for Connecting Electric Devices of Electricity Producers and Consumers to Electricity Grids, approved by Order No 1-127 of the Minister of Energy of 4 July 2012, provides that: “The operator may connect the electricity installations of two or more producers to the electricity grid under the same connection conditions, provided that such connection is technically, economically and rationally justified from the point of view of the rational development of the grid. In this case, the producers connecting their electrical installations to the operator’s electricity grid under the same connection conditions shall be considered as one producer during the connection period, which shall be connected to the operator’s electricity network in accordance with the procedures and conditions set out in this Description. The relations between the producers connecting the electrical installations to the operator’s electricity network and the procedure and conditions for their representation may be determined by a joint activity or other agreement concluded by the producers in accordance with the Civil Code of the Republic of Lithuania”.

It should be noted that Paragraph 2 of Article 6.972 of the Civil Code of the Republic of Lithuania provides that in case of relations with the third persons, the right of a partner to conclude the transactions on behalf of all the partners shall be approved by the power of attorney issued by the remaining partners or the agreement on joint activities.

Although the current legal framework does not regulate in detail the relationship between the operator and the producer group and does not disclose the mandatory content of the agreement on joint activities, in the operator’s view, a single letter of intent should be concluded with one of the participants in the agreement on joint activities, who has been appointed as the lead partner. 

If a group of persons acting on a basis of joint activity plans to participate in the tender, the following will have to be submitted to the transmission system operator: 1) one assurance of the performance of obligations by one of the persons forming the group (for all the commitments made). If so, which person should submit it?; 2) one joint assurance of the performance of obligations from all the persons in the group; 3) separate assurances of the performance of obligations from each person forming the group (in proportion to the obligations taken on)?

[31-01-2023] The draft description of the procedure for the organisation of tenders for the use of the maritime territory for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy resources and for the issuance of permits for the use of parts of the maritime territory for the development and operation of power plants using renewable energy resources does not provide for specific requirements for the assurance of the performance of obligations in the case of participation in the tender of a group of persons acting on the basis of an agreement on joint activities.

We consider that in the case of participation in the tender of a group of persons acting on the basis of an agreement on joint activities and a single letter of intent with one of the participants in the joint venture designated as the lead partner, the lead entity identified in the letter of intent should provide the assurance of the performance of obligations.

The Law on Energy from Renewable Sources provides that a person who has obtained a permit for the development and operation of renewable energy sources shall not be entitled to authorise other persons to carry out the activities referred to in the permit, or to delegate this right to them by agreement or otherwise. Do we understand correctly that a legal person, after obtaining a development and operation permit, will have the right to dispose of (transfer and otherwise) its shares and to employ other qualified persons to carry out works and services related to the development and operation in accordance with the other requirements laid down in the above mentioned law?

[31-01-2023] The current legal requirements do not prohibit a person who has won a tender organised by the National Energy Regulatory Council (NERC) and has been granted a development and operation permit by the NERC from disposing of (transferring and otherwise acting on) its shares (stakes) and employing other qualified persons to carry out works and services related to development and operation. However, we note that the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources of the Republic of Lithuania No XI-1375, amendment of articles 1, 2, 3, 5, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 20–1, 21, 22, 23, 26, 29, 49, 50, 55, 56, 57 and 63, and the title of Section 12, the repeal of Article 54 to the Law, addition of Article 15-1 to the Law, amendment of articles 10, 15 and 27 of Law No  XIV-1001, and Paragraph 23 of Article 2 of Law No XIV-1697 stipulate that: Permits for development and operation shall be issued, in accordance with the procedure and under the conditions established by this Law, to natural persons or legal persons established in the Republic of Lithuania, or to branches of legal persons or other organisations of other Member States established in the Republic of Lithuania, who have been declared successful in a tender in accordance with the procedure established in Paragraph 18 of this Article and which provide an undertaking to comply with the criteria of European and transatlantic integration throughout the period of validity of the development and operation permit, in accordance with the principles set out in Point 1 of paragraphs 11 and 12 of this Article.