Estonia has formally initiated the superficies licence and environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes for the Saare 1 offshore wind project, enabling the consortium behind the development to advance planning for up to 900 megawatts of capacity.
The Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (CPTRA) began the procedures following its January decision confirming Oxan Energy as the auction winner for the 88 square kilometre area, located approximately 60 kilometres west of Saaremaa Island.
The Saare 1 site is designated as an innovation zone under Estonia’s maritime spatial plan, allowing for the possible integration of both fixed-bottom and floating foundation technologies, depending on seabed and depth conditions. Water depths at the location reach up to 85 metres.
The project is being developed by a consortium comprising Oxan Energy, Ocean Connect Energy and SNOW.
“We are committed to a transparent, environmentally responsible development path, working closely with local communities, regulators, and stakeholders,” the consortium said in a joint statement.
Under CPTRA rules, the EIA must be submitted within 18 months, with a full report expected within 24 months. The final layout of the wind farm, including turbine count and positioning, will be determined following technical studies and environmental assessments.
The launch of licensing and assessment procedures marks a key step in Estonia’s push to expand offshore renewable energy and strengthen regional energy security.
