Greece has taken another major step toward establishing its offshore wind sector after the Ministry of Environment and Energy approved the reservation of 2,350 MW of transmission capacity for the first phase of the country’s offshore wind development program.
The decision secures access to the high-voltage electricity network for future offshore wind projects and confirms the marine areas that will be included in the initial rollout. The reserved grid capacity will be allocated exclusively to offshore wind developments, providing the necessary infrastructure support for Greece’s planned expansion of renewable energy generation.
Although the government’s first offshore wind phase targets around 1.9 GW of installed capacity, additional transmission capacity has been reserved to provide flexibility during project implementation. The additional margin will allow developers to adjust project designs, modify technical solutions or accommodate changes that may emerge during the development process.
The largest share of the reserved capacity, 600 MW, has been allocated to pilot offshore wind projects near Alexandroupoli, which are being developed by PPC, TERNA Energy and Motor Oil. The remaining capacity will be made available through future competitive tenders covering six offshore wind zones, including areas south of Rhodes, Agioi Apostoloi off Evia, Zakros in Crete, Donousa, Gyaros and the Gulf of Patras. The Gulf of Patras zone replaces the previously planned offshore wind area near Elounda in Crete.
The latest decision follows the establishment of a special purpose vehicle by the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company (EDEYEP), which will oversee offshore and seabed surveys required before concession tenders can begin. The company is expected to bring additional partners into the initiative, including electricity transmission system operator ADMIE, financial institutions and representatives from the energy sector.
The start of the offshore survey campaign has been delayed until the autumn as preparations continue. Once the necessary studies are completed and the National Offshore Wind Program receives final approval, Greece is expected to launch its first concession tenders for offshore wind development.
The expansion of offshore wind capacity represents a key element of Greece’s renewable energy strategy, supporting the country’s decarbonisation targets, increasing clean electricity generation and strengthening its role as a regional energy hub in Southeast Europe. The successful implementation of the program could position Greece as one of the leading offshore wind markets in the Eastern Mediterranean.
