Spain’s wind energy sector calls for faster regulation and offshore wind auctions

Representatives from Spain’s wind energy industry and port authorities have called for faster regulatory progress and the launch of offshore wind auctions to boost the development of offshore wind power in the country. The discussion took place during the radio program Ondas del Viento, organised by the Asociación Empresarial Eólica and is available to listen again:

Participants highlighted that Spain’s offshore wind sector remains stalled due to the lack of a clear auction schedule, despite the country’s strong industrial and technological capabilities. According to Juan de Dios López, Technical Director of the association, offshore wind projects require large-scale, long-term investments, making regulatory certainty essential for companies to plan ahead.

The debate also addressed the recently launched PORT-EOLMAR programme, promoted by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, which aims to support the adaptation of port infrastructure for offshore wind and other marine renewable energies.

From a port perspective, Manuel García Navarro, Managing Director of the Port of Castellón, welcomed the initiative and stressed the strategic role of ports in offshore wind development. He noted that the size and complexity of offshore wind components require specialised port infrastructure, including deep-water access, large assembly areas and high load-bearing capacity.

However, industry representatives warned about the challenges posed by the programme’s conditions. David Carrascosa, Director of Operations at Saitec, explained that ports applying for public funding must secure an equivalent level of private investment. Without a defined market and an active auction framework, he said, such requirements could discourage private investors and create uncertainty for the supply chain.

Speakers also compared Spain’s situation with other European countries such as France, where offshore wind development has progressed through coordinated planning, regulatory clarity and regular auctions. They warned that delays in Spain could lead to lost opportunities in a highly competitive European market.

In conclusion, the sector called on public authorities to simplify administrative procedures, publish a stable and realistic auction roadmap, and ensure that port infrastructure development moves in parallel with offshore wind projects. According to the participants, these steps are essential for Spain to fully seize the industrial, technological and energy potential of offshore wind power.

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