According to the latest insights unveiled by the World Forum Offshore Wind (WFO), the global offshore wind sector witnessed a significant surge in 2023, with just under 10 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity entering operation, reflecting a resilient trajectory despite challenges faced by the industry.
The report highlights that a total of 25 new offshore wind farms, boasting a combined capacity of 9.8GW, commenced operations last year, with China emerging as a dominant player accounting for nearly 5GW of this capacity.
By the end of 2023, the cumulative offshore wind capacity reached a substantial 67.4GW, underscoring the industry's robust growth trajectory.
Managing Director of WFO, Gunnar Herzig, remarked, “The overall numbers reflect that – despite a bumpy year for the industry – offshore wind energy is clearly on the rise.” Herzig further emphasized, “We see that the global offshore wind growth slightly increased in comparison to the 9.4GW installed in 2022.”
China retains its lead position in the global offshore wind arena, boasting a total operational capacity of 31.5GW, with an additional 6.3GW currently under construction.
The report also highlights positive developments in Europe, notably in France, where the total capacity more than doubled, propelled by the Saint-Brieuc project, which added 496MW.
Moreover, Norway marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of Hywind Tampen, the largest floating offshore wind farm to date, boasting an 88MW capacity.
Looking ahead, the UK and Taiwan emerge as frontrunners in terms of offshore wind farms under construction, with 3.9GW and 2.4GW, respectively, trailing China.
Herzig reiterated the importance of addressing increased costs and supply chain bottlenecks while expressing optimism about the industry's resilience, stating, “While increased costs and supply chain bottlenecks must be taken very seriously, we as WFO feel the positive spirit of the offshore wind industry every day.” He concluded by reaffirming WFO's commitment to fostering exchange and collaboration to position offshore wind as one of the world's leading sources of renewable energy.
