TotalEnergies is seeking approval of its massive 1.5-gigawatt (GW) offshore wind farm off the coast of Normandy, the largest renewable energy project ever undertaken in France.
The application, lodged by TotalEnergies’ wholly owned project company Centre Manche Energies eight months after securing the project from the French state, marks the beginning of the official permitting process.
Located more than 40 kilometres off the Normandy coast, the €4.5 billion (AU$7.4 billion) development is set to become the largest renewable energy project ever developed in France.
Once fully operational, the wind farm is expected to generate approximately 6 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity annually, providing enough clean, renewable power to supply more than one million French households.
“We are delighted to have filed for authorisation and to have reached this major milestone for Centre Manche Energies,” said Thierry Muller, Project Director for Centre Manche Energies.
“We intend to continue developing this competitive, value-creating project for Normandy, which will provide renewable electricity to nearly one million French homes.”
The application includes comprehensive technical and environmental surveys, preliminary designs, and a detailed installation program. The project’s environmental impact assessment was shaped by rigorous regulatory consultations and feedback from regional communities.
The development is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits to the region. The three-year construction phase is tipped to create up to 2,500 jobs, with TotalEnergies aiming to leverage Normandy’s specialised offshore wind workforce.
Additionally, the company plans to support European industry by prioritising local suppliers for critical components, including wind turbines and subsea electrical cables.
As government departments begin reviewing the dossier, Centre Manche Energies will continue consulting with local officials, environmental organisations, and the seafaring community to ensure the project integrates smoothly into the regional economy and marine environment.