Strategies to power up floating offshore wind in France

Floating offshore wind may still be on the path to full commercialisation, but its strategic importance for Europe’s energy security is already undeniable. 

This emerging technology will be a critical tool to unlocking vast renewable resources in deeper waters, a tool that France, and especially the Occitanie region, is looking to harness through a series of technologically-advanced pilot projects.

However, technology alone won’t determine success. Building a resilient local value chain, one that delivers economic benefits, creates jobs, and fosters innovation, is equally critical. 

In this episode of the Energy Transitions podcast, Pamela Largue speaks with Marie-Laure Barois, Co-Founder and Spokesperson of Wind’Occ, and Senior Advisor in marine renewable energies and the blue economy. Barois highlights what it takes to turn early-stage momentum into long-term industrial strength, from nurturing talent and advancing innovation to ensuring inclusivity and maintaining Europe’s competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global market.

In this episode of the Energy Transitions podcast, you will learn more about: 

• Why floating offshore wind is essential for Europe’s energy sovereignty, geopolitical resilience, and decarbonisation ambitions;
• What it takes to build and mobilise a local value chain that delivers real economic impact;
• The role of innovation in helping companies stay competitive in a fast-moving sector;
• How automation and AI could shape the future of floating offshore wind;
• Strategies for developing a skilled workforce to support industry growth;
• The importance of gender diversity—and how to attract more women into the sector;
• How the floating offshore wind market is expected to evolve across Europe in the next decade.

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This episode was recorded at the Enlit On The Road Meet Up in Toulouse, France. Learn more about how the region is driving decarbonisation with the aim of becoming a pioneering energy positive region. 

Listen to previous episodes:

How to enhance utility resilience through digital transformation
Strengthening European resilience to combat energy shocks

More about offshore wind:

UK wind initiatives connect energy with national security
Policy-first approach needed to scale floating offshore wind