Poland powers ahead: first offshore wind auction delivers strong results

Poland has successfully concluded its first-ever competitive auction for offshore wind. This is a major milestone for the country’s energy transition and for European offshore wind. The auction, held on 17 December 2025, awarded support to three major projects in the Baltic Sea, with a combined capacity of 3.4 GW. This outcome confirms Poland’s commitment to building a robust offshore wind market and sends a strong investment signal to the industry and financial institutions across Europe.

Two big projects are already being built in the Baltic Sea. The first turbines are up. Early projects were awarded outside auctions with global players like Ørsted and Northland Power. Now Poland enters a new phase: competitive auctions that will drive growth.

The auction used a two-sided Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, providing investors with long-term price stability for 25 years. Winning bids ranged from approximately €113–€117/MWh, all below the ministerial price caps set earlier this year.

A new chapter for Poland’s offshore wind

This auction marks the beginning of a new phase for Poland’s offshore wind sector. The projects are expected to deliver their first electricity to the grid by December 2032, with total estimated generation over the support period reaching 330 TWh. This is nearly double Poland’s annual electricity consumption. The scale of investment is substantial. Poland is projected to attract up to €208 billion. This will create significant value for the Polish economy, including jobs and public revenues.

Polish companies are set to play a major role. Domestic enterprises are expected to account for over 40% of the supply chain. This will help build long-term industrial capacity and expertise in coastal regions, supporting the country’s ambition to become a leading offshore wind hub in the Baltic Sea.

Looking ahead: a positive signal for Europe

Poland’s offshore wind roadmap includes further auctions in 2027, 2029, and 2031, each offering additional gigawatts of capacity. The government’s regular auction schedule is designed to maintain market competitiveness, investment predictability, and supply chain continuity. If current momentum continues, Poland could reach 18 GW of offshore wind by 2040 and potentially exceed 30 GW by 2050.

The Polish model, with its clear rules and long-term CfD support, is a stabilising force for the industry and a blueprint for other markets.Offshore wind is central to Europe’s energy security, competitiveness, and climate goals.

Europe needs offshore wind to cut fossil fuel imports, lower electricity prices, electrify industry and meet climate goals. Offshore wind is cheaper than new gas or nuclear. It is made in Europe and employs 100,000 people. One turbine powers 16,000 homes.

But Europe is not building enough. The target was 120 GW by 2030. Today there are 37 GW. At best, Europe will reach 70 GW. Poland’s success shows what is possible with clear rules and strong planning.