The French government is to launch a competitive bidding procedure later in 2022 for a 1-GW offshore windfarm off the South Atlantic coast of the country
A second competitive bidding procedure will be launched at a later date for a second offshore windfarm, also with a capacity of approximately 1.0 GW, ‘taking into account developments in technology and knowledge for the installation of offshore wind power.’
According to the official announcement, the first windfarm will be located in a 180 km2 area outside the Gironde estuary and the Sea of Pertuis marine park, which lies between the Iles de Ré and Oléron.
The second 1.0-GW windfarm is to be located in a 250 km2 zone in the same area, but further offshore.
The water depth in this second area is such that floating wind turbines may be required. Both zones are in the French exclusive economic zone.
RTE has been tasked with finding the best grid connection solution for the windfarms.
The first of the two windfarms is due to be commissioned in 2030-2033.
