Calvados Offshore Wind Farm Delayed Until Late 2027

EDF, the French energy giant, has confirmed that the commercial launch of its Calvados offshore wind project will now take place in late 2027—over two years later than originally scheduled. The wind farm was initially expected to become operational in 2025.

The delay stems from ongoing challenges in developing a new, site-specific drilling system. The tool, which is essential for installing the foundation monopiles, has yet to receive final internal certification. Saipem, the company responsible for the monopile installation, plans to resume work in August once the certification is secured.

The specialized equipment is a powerful drill designed to anchor monopiles into a calcareous seabed located at depths between 20 and 31 meters.

EDF clarified that the delay isn’t due to unforeseen seabed conditions, noting that geophysical and geotechnical surveys matched expectations from prior site investigations. Four trial drilling campaigns have been completed so far.

Despite EDF’s statement, Saipem had previously reported in January that soil-related complications were hindering progress. These issues were reportedly resolved later, allowing for smoother operations—until drilling work was paused again due to the ongoing development of EDF’s new tool.

Meanwhile, progress has been made elsewhere on the project. The offshore substation was successfully installed and connected to the mainland grid in 2023, with Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Deme handling the work.

Once completed, the 450MW wind farm is expected to generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 630,000 households. Existing agreements for power purchase and grid connection with France’s transmission operator RTE remain in place.