EU approves €63bn French offshore wind scheme

The European Commission has approved a €63 billion French State aid scheme to support the construction and operation of 11 offshore wind farms with a combined capacity of up to 11.1GW.

The Commission said the scheme will run for 25 years and is designed to support offshore wind projects in the North Sea, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

The Commission added that the wind farms are expected to generate up to 47.8TWh of renewable electricity per year, equivalent to around 10.6% of France’s annual electricity consumption.

Aid will be awarded through a transparent and non-discriminatory bidding process.

The support will take the form of a variable premium under a two-way contract for difference, with payments determined by comparing a reference price set in the successful bid with the market price for electricity.

The Commission said the scheme complies with the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework and concluded that it is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero economy.

The scheme replaces a measure approved in August 2025 for three offshore wind farms.

“Today’s decision clears the way for France’s offshore wind support scheme,” said Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition.

“France will continue working towards a fully decarbonised energy system, and the Commission will continue supporting Member States in achieving our common climate objectives.”

More information:https://www.renews.biz/offshore-wind/commission-approves-e63bn-french-offshore-wind-scheme/