MARKET TRENDS
France consolidates its offshore auctions into a massive 10 GW tender, earmarking half the capacity for pioneering floating wind technology
16 Apr 2026

France has initiated a 10GW offshore wind procurement exercise, marking a significant escalation in the country’s renewable energy strategy. The Ministry of Economy confirmed the merger of two previously separate auctions into a single tender covering all national coastlines. Notably, 5GW of the total allocation is reserved specifically for floating wind projects, the largest single commitment to the technology globally.
The tender includes seven maritime zones across Brittany, the Atlantic coast, and the Mediterranean. Officials expect to launch the formal process within months, with the first contracts likely awarded by late 2026. This scale suggests that the deepwater wind sector is transitioning from experimental phases toward industrial deployment.
The government aims to establish France as a primary hub for floating wind. Current national targets seek nearly 6GW of floating capacity by 2040 and 45GW of total offshore wind by 2050. To support these goals, the tender design incorporates supply chain requirements aligned with the EU Net Zero Industry Act. Developers must source certain strategic components from European manufacturers, a move intended to limit the influence of international turbine suppliers.
Economic viability remains a focal point for investors. France’s previous floating wind tender in late 2024 achieved a tariff of €85.9 per megawatt hour. Analysts suggest that the increased volume of this combined auction could further reduce costs through economies of scale.
Despite the ambitious targets, structural challenges persist. France currently operates roughly 2GW of offshore wind, with another 5.6GW under development. This leaves a significant deficit relative to the 15GW target set for 2035.
Success will depend on the state’s ability to address bottlenecks in port infrastructure and grid connectivity. To mitigate delays, the government has committed to beginning offshore surveys in the designated zones this autumn. This will allow site preparation to proceed alongside the bidding process. The outcome of this tender will serve as a bellwether for the industrial appetite for large scale floating wind across Europe.
By submitting, you agree to receive email communications from the event organizers, including upcoming promotions and discounted tickets, news, and access to related events.