Europe Bets Big as Floating Wind Gains Momentum

EU approval of France's €11B plan could accelerate floating wind as firms consider new alliances and stronger supply chains

10 Aug 2025

Europe’s floating wind sector is entering a critical phase after the European Commission approved France’s €11bn support scheme, a move expected to accelerate efforts to commercialise deep-water wind power.

The funding will advance three large floating wind projects off Brittany and the Mediterranean coast. But industry executives say the broader effect lies in the scheme’s conditions, which link support to stronger supply chain planning, diversified manufacturing and long-term operational readiness.

For developers, the changes could prompt a reassessment of joint ventures, procurement strategies and investment timelines. No companies have confirmed new partnerships, but analysts said such moves were increasingly likely as competition intensifies. One analyst said “this phase marks the point when floating wind could evolve from niche technology to essential energy infrastructure”.

EDF Renewables and other developers are expected to explore collaborations to secure turbine components and floating foundations. Manufacturers such as Vestas may revise production schedules to match the quicker timelines anticipated in forthcoming tenders.

The tender rules require bidders to show that their supply chains can adapt to disruptions and support large-scale deployment. Observers said these conditions could encourage alliances between turbine suppliers, marine contractors and technology firms, as well as targeted acquisitions to strengthen in-house capabilities. Investors may also gain confidence as policy signals become clearer.

Industry challenges remain. Executives warn that tighter criteria could favour larger companies with deeper balance sheets, while the global race for specialised parts may increase near-term costs. Even so, many expect the benefits of predictability, scale and coordinated planning to outweigh these pressures.

The policy shift offers Europe a more stable path to developing floating wind at industrial scale. Companies that move early, analysts say, may help shape the next stage of offshore energy as the region seeks a leadership position in deep-water renewables.