Poland’s Largest Offshore Wind Farm Clears Final Environmental Hurdle

Baltyk 1, a joint venture by Equinor and Polenergia, is now poised for Poland’s 2025 offshore auction—but timing is critical.

The Regional Director for Environmental Protection (RDOS) in Gdansk has given the green light to the Baltyk 1 offshore wind project, marking a major milestone for Poland’s renewable energy ambitions. Developed by Equinor and Polenergia, the project is the country’s largest offshore wind farm currently in development—and its backers are racing to secure a spot in the 2025 auction to keep momentum alive.

“Holding the 2025 auction is essential to avoid delays and solidify Poland’s role in the offshore wind supply chain,” say Equinor and Polenergia.

With final permits now secured—including approvals for offshore cable installation, maintenance, and a grid connection agreement—Baltyk 1 is inching closer to reality. But the clock is ticking. The developers warn that postponing the 2025 auction could disrupt the project’s timeline and jeopardize Poland’s growing foothold in the sector.

A Supply Chain in Motion

Over 300 Polish companies have already engaged in supplier meetings for the Baltyk projects, with several landing tier-1 contracts. This local involvement underscores a strategic push to integrate Poland’s industrial base into the offshore wind ecosystem. “This isn’t just about energy production—it’s about building a domestic supply chain that can compete in Europe,” says an industry insider familiar with the project.

Meanwhile, the broader energy landscape is shifting. The Spring 2025 issue of Energy Global highlights challenges like negative electricity prices in Europe and the rapid expansion of solar infrastructure—a reminder that offshore wind must move quickly to secure its place in the market.

Maintenance Momentum

While Baltyk 1 advances, the industry’s operational side is also evolving. Full Circle Wind Services recently renewed its operations and maintenance contract for 41 UK turbines, signaling sustained confidence in offshore wind’s long-term viability. For Poland, the message is clear: the pieces are falling into place, but the 2025 auction will be the ultimate test.