Polish offshore wind milestone as Baltic Power comes online

Polish energy company Orlen has announced that electricity generated by the Baltic Power offshore wind farm has entered Poland’s national grid.

It’s not only a milestone for the project, but also for Poland’s energy transition, as it’s the country’s first offshore wind farm.

The onshore construction phase started in early 2024, with offshore installations commencing in January 2025. Completion is expected this autumn.

Currently 54 of the 76 15MW turbines have been installed offshore, with the first now generating electricity.

Once fully operational, the Baltic Power wind farm will provide a total capacity of approximately 1.2GW, meeting approximately 3% of Poland’s current electricity demand.

Orlen chief executive Ireneusz Fąfara highlighted the magnitude of the project, calling it “the largest investment programme in the history of Poland’s energy sector”.

Total expenditure is expected to reach as much as PLN 380 billion ($140 billion), he said, adding that the value of the project extends beyond financial and megawatts produced.

“Beyond generating electricity and reinforcing security, it will help develop a new sector of the Polish economy. At the same time, we are building a domestic supply chain and developing capabilities that will remain in Poland long after construction of this wind farm is complete. This value cannot be measured solely in megawatts; it will also provide a lasting boost to the country’s growth,” said Fąfara.

According to Orlen, in the coming weeks more turbines will undergo start-up and testing while the entire infrastructure is simultaneously tested and validated, including the turbines, offshore substations, onshore substation and control systems.

Learn more about Poland's energy transition:
EU approves aid for Poland’s first nuclear power plant
Poland poised for renewable energy awakening shows report
Poland’s workforce transition: Is there a life after coal?

Several specialised vessels are operating within the project area, carrying out the installation, testing and acceptance of wind farm components.

All inter-array and export cables, totalling 350 km in length, have been laid, and both offshore substations are in place.

Furthermore, the maintenance base in Łeba is operating and supporting construction works. Once the project is complete, the base will ensure maintenance is carried out for approximately 30 years. The base also houses the Offshore Coordination Centre, which manages the movement of vessels working within the project area.

Once construction has been completed, the final step will be to obtain an electricity generation licence from the Energy Regulatory Office.