February 2026 – The publication of France’s 3rd Multiannual Energy Programme (PPE 3) marks a turning point for the country’s energy transition, setting binding targets for offshore wind and unlocking unprecedented industrial opportunities for European players. With 15 GW of offshore wind capacity targeted by 2035 (and 18 GW by 2037), France is positioning itself as a major European hub for floating wind technology. Brittany, home to strategic projects and world-class port infrastructure, is at the heart of this ambition—offering concrete avenues for collaboration, investment, and supply chain integration.
PPE 3: A Clear Roadmap for Offshore Wind
The PPE 3 establishes a clear, long-term framework for offshore wind development, backed by public investment and industrial policy:
– 15 GW of offshore wind by 2035, rising to 18 GW by 2037 (including 10 GW of floating wind). See the project map.
– €40 billion in investments expected across the value chain, from manufacturing to grid connection.
– 33,867 jobs projected in the offshore wind sector by 2030
– 7+ GW of tenders to be launched by 2030, including AO9 Bretagne Sud (500 MW), AO10 Bretagne Nord-Ouest (500 MW), and BGL (1 GW), the largest floating wind zone in France.
– Industrial localization requirements: Tenders will prioritize projects with strong European supply chain integration, in line with the Net Zero Industry Act.
Why this matters for Europe: France’s offshore wind build-out is designed to complement North Sea capacity, diversify Europe’s energy mix, and create a sovereign industrial ecosystem—reducing dependence on non-EU suppliers.
Brittany: Europe’s Gateway to Floating Wind
Brittany is a cornerstone of France’s offshore wind strategy, hosting three of the country’s most advanced projects and offering unique advantages for European stakeholders:
Flagship Projects & Infrastructure
| Project | Capacity | Status | Ports Involved | Key Opportunities for European Partners |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AO9 Bretagne Sud | 500 MW | Tender phase (2025–2026) | Lorient, Brest | Turbine assembly, floating foundations, O&M |
| AO10 BNO | 500 MW | Tender phase (2026) | Brest | Cable manufacturing, logistics, local content |
| BGL (Bretagne Grand Large) | 1 GW | Structuring phase | Lorient, Brest | Large-scale industrial partnerships, R&D |
Ports of Brest and Lorient: Strategic Assets
– Brest: Deep-water facilities, dedicated quays for floating wind assembly, and a growing cluster of 100+ SMEs specializing in marine renewables.
– Lorient: Logistics hub for O&M, with direct access to AO9 and BGL sites, and a skilled workforce trained in maritime trades.
Supply Chain & Skills
Brittany’s industrial ecosystem stands out for its end-to-end capabilities in offshore wind, with 200 companies positioned across the entire value chain—from manufacturing to operation and maintenance (O&M). Breton firms have built globally recognized expertise through high-profile projects in Europe and beyond, making the region a strategic partner for European stakeholders.
Timeline & Key Milestones
| Year | PPE 3 Milestone | Brittany-Specific Action Items |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | AO9 tender awarded; PPE 3 decrees finalized | Finalize supply chain partnerships; begin port upgrades |
| 2027 | AO10 tender launched; first BGL phase | Break ground on manufacturing facilities |
| 2030 | 2.5 GW operational in Brittany | O&M hubs fully operational; R&D centers expanded |
| 2035 | 15 GW national target (3+ GW in Brittany) | Full-scale industrial deployment; export growth |
Call to Action: Partner with Brittany Today
France’s PPE 3 is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to shape Europe’s offshore wind future. Brittany offers:
– Ready-to-go projects (AO9, AO10, BGL) with clear timelines.
– World-class ports and a skilled workforce.
– Strong public support for industrial localization and innovation.
