The European Commission has approved French state aid

Sébastien Bertrand (CC BY 2.0) ©


The European Commission has approved €63 billion in
French state aid to support the offshore wind energy industry.

This aid will help France meet its renewable energy targets in addition to the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal, which aims to support decarbonisation as a driver of industrial growth across Europe.


The measure will support the construction and operation of more than 11 offshore wind farms. Together, the projects are expected to have a combined capacity of 11.1GW and generate enough electricity to meet around 10.6% of France’s annual electricity consumption.


Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition Teresa Ribera said: “Today's decision clears the way for France's offshore wind support scheme. France will continue working towards a fully decarbonised energy system.”


The aid will be granted through a transparent and non-discriminatory bidding process organised by France. It will take the form of a two-way contract for difference, with payments calculated by comparing a reference price with the market price.


The funding was approved after the Commission concluded that the aid was necessary to help France achieve its net-zero targets, while also supporting the economic measures needed to reinforce the Clean Industrial Deal.


For more information about offshore wind farm projects across the globe, click here.