The Ministry of Environment and Energy is considering restarting Greece’s offshore wind program, focusing for now on preparatory work rather than immediate commitments. No final decision has been made, but discussions are underway as the government weighs market uncertainties and technological challenges.
Officials cite several reasons for caution. Floating wind technology remains expensive, auction systems have faced problems—most recently highlighted by the failure of a German tender—and there is concern about renewed political opposition similar to last year’s backlash in Crete. Progress has also been delayed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the National Program has been stalled for nine months. That program identified more than 20 offshore zones within six nautical miles, in line with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Unlike the October 2023 plan, the current approach would avoid strict deadlines. Instead, the government aims to complete the necessary groundwork gradually, so tenders can be launched once international conditions improve. Many countries are adjusting their offshore wind strategies due to high costs, and Greece may use this pause to prepare more carefully.
One option under review is publishing the National Program through a Joint Ministerial Decision, designating potential offshore areas without fixing a tender schedule. In parallel, a special purpose vehicle at the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company (EDEYEP) could be tasked with conducting wind measurements and bathymetric studies.
If preparations begin soon, tenders for these studies could be launched within months, with initial results expected by 2027. This data would help investors plan ahead of the first tenders, which are unlikely before 2028.
