France has officially launched one of the largest offshore wind tenders in Europe, aiming to add a total of 10 GW of new renewable energy capacity.
The initiative includes 5 GW of fixed-bottom offshore wind farms and 5 GW of floating wind projects, marking a significant step in the country’s transition toward clean energy and long-term decarbonization goals.
According to French authorities, most of the future projects will be located off the country’s western coastline. The new tender forms part of France’s strategy to rapidly expand its offshore renewable energy sector over the next decade.
France currently operates less than 2 GW of offshore wind capacity. With the new projects, the country aims to increase its offshore wind generation capacity to approximately 15 GW by 2035.
The announcement is expected to create significant opportunities for the offshore industry, including demand for specialized vessels such as Service Operation Vessels (SOV), Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV), Cable Layers, Wind Turbine Installation Vessels (WTIV), and Crew Boats.
Industry experts also expect growing demand for offshore technicians, DP officers, engineers, and support personnel as construction and maintenance activities expand.
The tender represents one of the most ambitious offshore wind programs in Europe and highlights France’s commitment to strengthening its position in the renewable energy sector.
Photo: Illustration of France’s new 10 GW offshore wind development program, which includes both fixed-bottom and floating wind projects.
