Equinor and Polenergia have secured a final environmental permit for their planned Bałtyk 1 offshore wind project, clearing a key hurdle ahead of Poland’s anticipated 2025 offshore wind auction.
The Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection (RDOŚ) in Gdańsk issued the decision, enabling the nearly 1600-megawatt (MW) project to move into the next phase of development. Bałtyk 1 is part of a broader portfolio of offshore wind projects being developed jointly by the two companies, with a total potential capacity of up to 3 gigawatts (GW).
“This is an extremely important moment for the Bałtyk 1 project, bringing us closer to participating in the auction of the second phase of offshore development,” said Adam Purwin, chief executive of Polenergia. “Holding it in 2025 will ensure continuity between the first and second phases of offshore wind development, avoiding unnecessary delays and maximising the energy potential of the Polish sea.”
Equinor and Polenergia emphasized the importance of conducting the second-phase auction this year to avoid gaps in the development timeline and maintain momentum in supply chain integration. The companies said the project has already secured necessary cable installation permits and a grid connection agreement.
“The environmental decision for the Bałtyk 1 project—the most advanced initiative in the second phase of offshore wind development in Poland—is a significant milestone,” said Michał Jerzy Kołodziejczyk, Equinor’s country manager in Poland. “The environmental permit enables the project to move forward and participate in the 2025 auction.”
Bałtyk 1 is located approximately 81 kilometres offshore. Electricity from the wind farm will be transmitted to the Krzemienica substation, which is currently being developed by the national transmission system operator. The onshore infrastructure will span the municipalities of Ustka and Redzikowo in northern Poland.
An environmental impact assessment was carried out for Bałtyk 1, including studies on underwater noise and avian collision risks. The developers stated that the proposed mitigation measures will help minimize environmental effects.
Over 300 Polish companies have taken part in supplier engagement meetings related to Bałtyk 1, and several domestic firms have already been awarded tier-1 contracts. Additional contracting is expected as the project advances.
Equinor and Polenergia aim to deliver first power from the Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 projects by 2027.
