The Welsh Government has launched its Offshore Wind Task and Finish Group Action Plan 2025–2026, a bold blueprint to capture the full economic and environmental value of the 15 GW of offshore wind potential around Welsh waters. The plan comes just days after the announcement of two successful bidders to develop 3 GW of floating wind in the Celtic Sea, with a third site to follow, confirming a total of 4.5 GW in the region’s first commercial leasing round.

The action plan outlines specific steps to unlock over £32 billion in economic value, including £4.8 billion for Welsh businesses and more than 3,000 high-quality jobs. Developed with input from a cross-sector expert group, the strategy focuses on delivering tangible outcomes: from port infrastructure upgrades and skills investment to planning reform and supply chain development.

Industry Welcomes “Ambitious Blueprint”

In response, RenewableUK Cymru — the voice of the renewable energy industry in Wales — welcomed the plan, calling it an “ambitious blueprint for turning Wales’ renewable energy potential into a national economic success story.”

Ajai Ahluwalia, Head of Supply Chain for RenewableUK, commented:

“We are pleased to see clear, practical actions that respond directly to industry calls for greater certainty, stronger collaboration, and urgent delivery. Offshore wind is one of the UK’s greatest industrial opportunities — and industry stands ready to work with government to make it happen.”

Key actions from the plan include:

• Long-term leasing visibility & revenue support: Providing market confidence for investors and developers through seabed leasing and Contract for Difference (CfD) reform.

• Planning and consenting reform: Ensuring resourced, streamlined regulatory processes to fast-track major projects.

• Port investment & promotion: A Welsh Ports Prospectus and targeted financial tools to make Welsh ports globally competitive for manufacturing and integration.

• Anchor supply chain investment: Attracting a major contractor to catalyse local supply chain growth and embed economic value in Wales.

• Dedicated delivery team: A new Welsh Government implementation unit will lead coordination and progress monitoring.

With floating wind set to play a major role in the UK’s energy future, and growing export markets in Ireland and France, Wales is now positioning itself at the centre of a clean industrial revolution — one that could reshape its economy for generations to come.

📄 Read the full action plan: gov.wales/offshore-wind-action-plan