The license grants Saare Wind Energy the right to occupy and utilize a designated area of Estonia’s maritime territory, including the seabed, for constructing the wind farm and its infrastructure. While this approval is a key milestone, the company must still obtain a construction permit before commencing work.
Jaanus Uiga, Deputy Secretary General for Energy and Mineral Resources at the Ministry of Climate Change, stated: “This is the first building permit in the history of Estonian offshore wind farms – it is an important step towards the production of clean energy.”
The wind farm will feature up to 100 turbines, positioned at least 11 kilometers from Saaremaa’s west coast, with electricity production expected to begin in the early 2030s. The superficies license, valid for 50 years, supports the long-term development of this renewable energy project.
Saare Wind Energy is now eligible to apply for a construction permit from the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority and an environmental permit for water use from the Environmental Board. The company must submit its construction permit application within two years, with the permit typically valid for five years, followed by a final use permit.
In addition to this project, the Estonian government has launched proceedings for building permits for 11 other offshore wind farms, signaling a broader commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity. These initiatives aim to meet domestic energy consumption needs sustainably, supporting Estonia’s environmental goals and enhancing energy security.
The Saaremaa wind farm represents a pivotal advancement in Estonia’s clean energy transition, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and fostering economic growth through renewable energy development.
