The Ministry of Environment and Energy has approved the reservation of 2,350 MW of transmission capacity for the first phase of Greece’s offshore wind development programme. The approval follows the country’s efforts to establish an offshore wind sector with grid access for future projects. The reserved capacity is intended to support the initial rollout and subsequent expansion of offshore generation.
The decision secures access to the high-voltage electricity network for offshore wind developments. It also confirms the marine areas that will be included in the first stage of deployment. The reserved grid capacity will be allocated exclusively to offshore wind projects.
Grid reservation and flexibility for project implementation
Government targets for the initial offshore wind phase are around 1.9 GW of installed capacity. Additional transmission capacity has been reserved beyond that target to provide flexibility during implementation. This margin is designed to allow developers to adjust project designs and technical solutions as work progresses.
The additional capacity also supports accommodation of changes that may arise during development. Developers can modify approaches in response to evolving requirements without losing access to transmission capacity reserved for offshore wind. The allocation framework is linked to the first phase of the national programme.
Pilot projects near Alexandroupoli and future tender zones
The largest share of the reserved transmission capacity, 600 MW, has been allocated to pilot offshore wind projects near Alexandroupoli. The projects are being developed by PPC, TERNA Energy and Motor Oil. The remaining capacity will be made available through future competitive tenders.
Those tenders will cover six offshore wind zones: south of Rhodes, Agioi Apostoloi off Evia, Zakros in Crete, Donousa, Gyaros and the Gulf of Patras. The Gulf of Patras zone replaces a previously planned offshore wind area near Elounda in Crete.
EDEYEP-led surveys before concession tenders
The latest decision follows the creation of a special purpose vehicle by EDEYEP, the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company. The entity will oversee offshore and seabed surveys required before concession tenders can begin. It is expected to bring additional partners into the initiative.
Planned participants include ADMIE, electricity transmission system operator, along with financial institutions and representatives from the energy sector. The start of the offshore survey campaign has been delayed until autumn as preparations continue.
National Offshore Wind Program approval and first concessions
After studies are completed and the National Offshore Wind Program receives final approval, Greece is expected to launch its first concession tenders for offshore wind development. The timing is linked to completion of required assessments under the survey process led by EDEYEP.
The expansion of offshore wind capacity is described as part of Greece’s renewable energy strategy. It is intended to support decarbonisation targets and increase clean electricity generation while strengthening Greece’s role as a regional energy hub in Southeast Europe.
