France Plans 9.2 GW Offshore Wind Projects

France is set to launch tenders for two fixed and three floating offshore wind farms totaling 9.2 GW, as part of its goal to achieve 45 GW of wind power by 2050. Energy Minister Olga Givernet emphasized that this initiative is a signal for the industrial value chain to remain committed to local operations, especially as General Electric plans significant workforce reductions at its wind turbine factory in Saint-Nazaire. The new projects will be located off the coasts of Fécamp, Brittany, the western Gulf of Biscay, and the southern Mediterranean. Additionally, there are plans to establish offshore wind ports in the Occitania region, with investments exceeding $360 million. The French government aims for 50 percent local content in the offshore wind supply chain, highlighting its commitment to domestic industry. These developments come at a time when GE Vernova is reportedly downsizing, risking up to 900 jobs in France.