Expanded Investment in Portugal's Wind Energy Sector by Ocean Winds
Portugal is expediting its offshore wind aspirations with the National Maritime Spatial Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (PAER), targeting a key role in Europe's offshore wind sector. Government officials have reportedly been moving closer to a consensus on the auction model, and timelines hint at a possible launch this year or in 2026.
In late April, the government published a decree in Portugal's official gazette outlining the framework for the competitive bidding process. Project director José Pinheiro expressed optimism, stating that the auction's success is crucial for the future growth of the technology. He added that although global economic uncertainty might cause delays, Ocean Winds' global presence allows it to adapt its investments as necessary.
The auction forms part of the PAER, approved in January, which designates approximately 2,700km of sea space for offshore wind development in regions such as Viana do Castelo, Leixões, Figueira da Foz, Sines, and Aguçadoura. Five years of WindFloat operation have given Ocean Winds valuable expertise in floating wind technology, with an emphasis on scaling the technology to promote Portugal's global leadership in the clean energy transition.
Since connecting to the grid in late 2019, WindFloat Atlantic has produced over 345 GWh of electricity, powering 25,000 homes and preventing over 33,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions. The government aims to auction between 6 and 10 GW of offshore wind capacity as part of the Norte Offshore Wind Plan, supporting its objective of achieving 80% renewable electricity generation by 2030.
As the offshore wind auction awaits its launch in the second half of 2025, it represents a significant milestone in Portugal's commitment to decarbonization.
- Portugal's commitment to environmental-science is evident as it prepares to auction offshore wind capacity, aiming to promote technology advancement in the industry.
- The success of the upcoming offshore wind auction, a part of Portugal's National Maritime Spatial Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (PAER), could pave the way for Portugal to lead in global clean energy transition.
- With its expertise in floating wind technology, gained from the WindFloat operation, Ocean Winds anticipates making significant investments in Portugal's offshore wind sector, contributing to the nation's finance-driven clean energy goals.
