EnBW has established a new subsidiary, EnBW Valeco Offshore SAS (EVO), to compete in France's offshore wind sector. EVO will take part in upcoming French offshore wind auctions, aiming to leverage the financial strength of EnBW, a major European energy company, and the expertise of Valeco, a seasoned developer of onshore renewable projects in France.
“The foundation of the new company reflects the major commitment by EnBW,” said Pauline Bertrand, managing director of EVO. “Supported from the outset by Valeco and financially backed by our parent company EnBW, EVO is entirely dedicated to offshore wind, capable of supporting the projects of tomorrow in France.”
France has initiated its AO9 tender for 2.5GW of offshore wind capacity, with another tender planned for 2025. The country aims to add 10GW of offshore capacity by 2035 and has set a target of 45GW by 2050.
EnBW currently operates 1GW of offshore wind capacity, with an additional 960MW under construction in the North Sea. Together with BP, EnBW is also developing wind farms totaling nearly 6GW off the British coast. “France is the main strategic market of EnBW outside Germany,” said EVO managing director Pascal Sommer, emphasizing the company's long-term commitment to the French offshore wind market.
