• Global offshore wind capacity could reach 100 GW by end-2026, according to RenewableUK.

• The sector could add 13–17 GW of new capacity, representing growth of 15%–20% year-on-year.

• A total pipeline of 1,565 projects represents 1,157 GW of potential capacity across 49 countries.

Global offshore wind capacity is set to approach a symbolic threshold. Capacity could reach 100 gigawatts (GW) by the end of the year, according to estimates published on Friday, March 13 by RenewableUK.

This level would mark an increase of between 13 GW and 17 GW compared with estimates from Global Wind Energy Council and Westwood for the previous year.

As a result, the sector would record growth of roughly 15% to 20%, driven by the commissioning of new offshore wind farms across multiple regions.

Industry data highlights strong investment momentum despite earlier volatility. “Offshore wind projects recorded £39 billion [about $51.8 billion] in committed investments last year, corresponding to final investment decisions covering 16.8 GW of capacity,” RenewableUK said.

Therefore, developers continue to advance large-scale projects as financing conditions stabilize following a slowdown in 2024.

Power Generation Impact

This level of installed capacity can generate substantial electricity output. The sector could produce enough power to supply more than 100 million households, according to the same estimates.

Consequently, offshore wind continues to expand its role within the global electricity mix as new capacity comes online. The global offshore wind pipeline remains extensive. 

RenewableUK identified 1,565 projects at various stages of development, including operational, under-construction and planned assets. These projects represent a combined potential capacity of 1,157 GW across 49 countries.

However, offshore wind development remains geographically concentrated. Asia dominates the sector, driven primarily by China, while Europe forms the second major hub, particularly around the North Sea.

By contrast, the Americas still contribute limited capacity, according to the Global Wind Energy Council. Africa and the Middle East currently have no operational offshore wind capacity.

New installations continue to originate from a limited number of leading markets.  China and the United Kingdom account for a significant share of both installed capacity and projects under development.

Looking ahead, global offshore wind capacity could reach 236 GW by 2030 if announced projects proceed as planned. These projections rely on a pipeline that remains heavily concentrated in already dominant regions.

This article was initially published in French by Abdel-Latif Boureima

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum