France’s Offshore Wind Future

Saint-Brieuc Siemens Gamesa offshore wind farm during sunset, in France

The commissioning of the Fécamp wind power plant marks France's most powerful offshore project. Along with the Saint-Brieuc project—both installed and maintained for the long term by Siemens Gamesa—they are the company’s first offshore installations in the country, delivering a combined capacity of 1 GW. This capacity can power approximately 1,600,000 people annually and save over 1.6 million tons of CO2 emissions each year, equivalent to eliminating the carbon emissions from over 400,000 flights from Paris to New York. Siemens Gamesa plans to deliver even more significant projects in the coming years, marking an important step toward France’s renewable energy targets.

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SGRE nacelle Production at Le Havre, in France

Over the past 20 years, the country’s energy landscape has transformed significantly. In 2000, over 90% of its electricity came from nuclear power and fossil fuels, with renewables contributing only a small fraction. Wind power was almost nonexistent, making up less than 0.5% of the grid. Today, nuclear power continues to dominate the energy mix at nearly 60%, with fossil fuels now accounting for a smaller share. Renewables have grown significantly, with wind now providing around 10% of electricity. While this progress is notable, it lags countries like Denmark and Germany, where wind energy contributes over 40% and 30%, respectively, as they have transitioned away from coal and nuclear. This comparison underscores the potential for further growth in renewable energy while recognizing the country’s unique energy strategy.

This transformation is largely driven by the nation’s long-term commitment to climate targets, embodied in the recent offshore wind sector deal. By closing two coal-fired power plants in 2022 and accelerating the deployment of offshore wind, France is advancing toward its ambitious goal of connecting 18 GW of offshore capacity by 2035. Looking ahead, over 13 GW of offshore wind projects are expected to be awarded by the end of 2026. Siemens Gamesa is proud to have secured 5 out of 6 projects in the first two bidding rounds, totaling 2.5 GW, with 1 GW in production and 1.5 GW still to be delivered from our Le Havre plant. We are committed to supporting France's leadership in offshore wind and renewable energy.

Le Havre: Building local value for global impact

In 2022, Siemens Gamesa opened its factory in Le Havre, which currently employs over 1,300 people—most of whom are local hires. This facility, the largest industrial site in France, is built on the grounds of a former coal plant—showcasing energy transition—with an expansive footprint and significant investment, producing both blades and nacelles under one roof. "We are proud that this facility is a hub for local employment and innovation. By collaborating with regional partners and suppliers, we’re ensuring that the benefits of the energy transition are felt throughout the local economy," said Anton Bak, Plant Manager, Siemens Gamesa in Le Havre. Through these local partnerships, Siemens Gamesa is helping to build a robust French supply chain, creating jobs and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. This localization strategy ensures long-term industrial growth while helping France meet its offshore wind targets.

Achieving France’s wind power ambitions

Siemens Gamesa’s involvement in Saint-Brieuc and Fécamp marks significant progress for France’s offshore wind sector, but these projects are just the beginning. The French government's 2022 sector deal sets a goal to connect 18 GW of offshore wind energy by 2035. As part of this plan, 3 GW of tenders are expected to be awarded in 2025, with an additional 10 GW or more to be awarded by 2026. However, achieving this vision requires overcoming key challenges.

One critical challenge is volume visibility and predictability. To maintain momentum, France must adhere to the offshore wind sector deal’s timeline, ensuring timely launches of tenders and faster project realizations. The country has historically faced some of the slowest permitting processes in Europe, which could delay projects crucial to its energy goals. A strong commitment from the government to improve this process will help ensure that projects materialize on schedule, in line with the European Wind Power Action Plan.

Saint-Brieuc offshore wind farm wide view with a crane boat, in France.

Another significant factor is strengthening wind’s value. The upcoming tenders should focus on enhancing qualitative criteria that differentiate bids, ensuring they contribute not only to France’s renewable energy objectives but also to bolstering the European industry. Siemens Gamesa supports the Net Zero Industry Act’s emphasis on enhancing European supply chains, which are vital for the success of the green transition.

"France’s offshore wind market is growing rapidly, and we’re proud to be a part of this exciting journey. We are particularly optimistic about the future with the new Ministry of Energy in place, which we believe will help create a predictable, transparent framework that encourages investment, innovation, and partnership across the supply chain. However, long-term success depends on ongoing collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders," says Frédéric Petit, Managing Director of Siemens Gamesa France.

A sustainable future through collaboration

As a global company with a strong European footprint, Siemens Gamesa is committed to helping France and Europe achieve their renewable energy goals. However, this journey cannot succeed without close collaboration between the government, industry, and local communities. France's offshore wind potential is vast, and Siemens Gamesa is eager to continue playing a leading role in this energy transition.

Powering France’s Offshore Wind Future

Middle East & Africa, and France Communications Lead