Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Offshore wind energy continues to expand globally, with installed capacity reaching around 85 GW and a further significant volume currently under construction, confirming the sector’s ongoing growth.
Across Europe, investment in offshore wind remains a central component of the energy transition. Countries bordering the North Sea have committed to accelerating the development of wind capacity and supporting grid infrastructure, while auction systems continue to bring forward new projects, particularly in markets such as the United Kingdom.
In Poland, offshore wind is moving from planning to implementation. The first large-scale projects, including Baltic Power, are expected to begin operations around 2026–2027, marking a transition from development to active generation.
“Offshore wind is no longer a future concept but a developing part of the energy system,” said Oliwia Mróz-Malik, Manager for Offshore Wind Investment and Development at the Polish Wind Energy Association. “The coming years will determine how quickly projects translate into measurable contributions to the national energy mix.”
The experience of more mature markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany and Denmark illustrates the pace at which offshore wind can scale once initial projects are delivered. In these countries, offshore wind has evolved from early-stage projects into a significant source of electricity within a relatively short timeframe.
From a market perspective, offshore wind offers advantages linked to the absence of fuel costs, which can reduce exposure to commodity price volatility. However, its impact on electricity prices depends on broader system conditions, including grid capacity, storage and overall system flexibility.
“Increasing the share of low-carbon generation can influence wholesale electricity prices, particularly during periods of high renewable output,” Mróz-Malik added. “However, the scale of this effect will depend on infrastructure readiness and system integration.”
In Poland, the development of offshore wind is also linked to industrial activity. A growing number of companies are participating in the supply chain, including manufacturers of structural components, cables and specialised equipment, as well as service providers in logistics and engineering.
“Offshore wind projects are not only energy investments but also industrial projects,” Mróz-Malik said. “They contribute to the development of local capabilities and support long-term economic activity.”
Industry estimates suggest that investment in offshore wind could reach significant levels over the coming decades, reflecting the scale of infrastructure required. The final outcome will depend on the pace of project delivery, regulatory conditions and the expansion of supporting infrastructure such as transmission networks and energy storage.
While the sector continues to face challenges, including permitting and grid integration, offshore wind is increasingly positioned as a key component of Europe’s long-term energy strategy. In Poland, the coming years are expected to determine how quickly the sector moves from initial deployment to broader system relevance.
