The European Union aims for 360 GW in offshore wind by 2050.

In recent days, an online meeting of the directors general of the energy ministries of European Union member countries took place. As a result of the discussions, a non-binding agreement was reached on new targets for the offshore wind sector for the coming decades.

New Targets for Offshore Wind Farms

The updated plans aim for a significant increase in installed capacity in offshore wind farms:

86–89 GW by 2030
259–261 GW by 2040
Around 360 GW by 2050
Currently, the European Union has over 20 GW of installed capacity in offshore installations, meaning the 2050 target is 18 times higher than the current value. The European Commission emphasizes that the development of the offshore renewable energy sector will play a crucial role in the transition to clean energy and ensure energy security in the region.

Expansion of Transmission Networks and TEN-E

Achieving these ambitious plans will require significant expansion of transmission networks. The Commission reminds of the regional cooperation instruments outlined in the updated TEN-E regulation (Trans-European Energy Networks).

With new frameworks for cross-border cooperation, the infrastructure development process will become more cost-effective and reduce potential environmental impacts.

Update of ENTSO-E Plans

The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) will update its strategic plans for the development of the offshore network (ONDP). The goal is to provide investors and market participants with transparency regarding the shape of the future energy network in each of the EU’s maritime basins by 2050.

Source: energy.ec.europa.eu