France has launched a tender process for the development of 10 GW of offshore wind capacity, with most projects to be located along the country’s western coastline (CRE press release, 12/06/2026). Originally expected in 2024, the tender will be divided equally between 5 GW of fixed-bottom offshore wind projects and 5 GW of floating offshore wind projects.
The projects will market their electricity under contracts for difference (CfDs), which ensure operators receive a predetermined price. The tender sets a maximum weighted average price of EUR100/MWh, guaranteed for 25 years.
The wind turbines will also have to comply with European regulations, requiring that most, if not all, of the equipment be manufactured in Europe. Components produced outside Europe will likewise be subject to stringent environmental requirements, according to the French government.
Interested companies will have four months to submit bids for the projects, until 12 October 2026. The winning bidders are expected to be announced in February 2027.
This tender is intended to enable France to increase its installed offshore wind capacity from approximately 2 GW today to between 15 GW and 18 GW by 2035, in line with the new Multiannual Energy Programme (PPE3), presented in February 2026, which subsequently sets a target of 45 GW by 2050.
In April 2026, the French government announced the resumption of tenders for renewable electricity projects, including onshore wind, offshore wind, and solar PV (KEI, 07/04/2026). These tenders form part of the third Multiannual Energy Programme (PPE 3). The aim of this new energy roadmap is to transform France’s energy mix from 60% fossil-based energy in current final energy consumption to 60% fossil-free energy by 2030, rising to 70% by 2035.
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