The Baltic Power offshore wind project, a 1.14-GW development by Poland's Orlen and Canada's Northland Power, has introduced a compensation program to support local fishermen affected by construction activities. Offshore work is set to begin in January 2025.
The initiative is designed to mitigate financial losses caused by restricted access to fishing areas during the wind farm's construction. Compensation payments will be based on vessel size, ranging from PLN 15,200 (USD 3,700/EUR 3,500) to PLN 48,700 annually, with additional one-time payments for recreational vessels.
This temporary scheme will remain in place until formal national regulations for compensation between the offshore wind and fishing industries are established.
Baltic Power, which has already started construction onshore and is finalizing offshore preparations, is integrating local communities into its activities. The project has engaged Polish fishermen and their vessels to assist with maritime traffic management during installation.