A new study by Politecnico di Torino and WindEurope has found that the future growth of offshore wind in the Mediterranean will depend not only on advances in floating wind technology, but also on stable regulation, stronger infrastructure, grid readiness and a more developed industrial supply chain.

Published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, the study, "Potentials and challenges of floating wind in the Mediterranean Sea: a joint industrial and academic perspective", outlines the key conditions required to transform the region's offshore wind potential into competitive and bankable projects. The research aims to provide policymakers and industry with evidence-based recommendations to strengthen the competitiveness of offshore wind in Europe.

According to the study, one of the main barriers to deployment is the regulatory framework. The authors argue that predictable rules governing permitting, auctions and grid access are just as important as technological maturity. Clear timelines and risk-reduction mechanisms are considered essential to attract long-term investment.

The research also highlights the need to expand the infrastructure supporting the sector. It identifies ports, manufacturing capacity, logistics networks and a skilled workforce as critical elements for delivering offshore wind projects at industrial scale.

Grid integration is another major challenge. The study notes that offshore wind farms require efficient connections to the onshore electricity network, and that the availability and capacity of these connections will directly influence project costs, development timelines and overall viability.

Beyond technical and industrial considerations, the report stresses the importance of environmental protection and social acceptance. It recommends implementing environmental safeguards, continuous monitoring programmes and early engagement with local communities throughout project development.

Overall, the study seeks to align public policy, industry investment and technical priorities to support the credible and achievable expansion of offshore wind in the Mediterranean, which the authors describe as a strategic region for Europe's energy security and industrial competitiveness.

Giuliana Mattiazzo, Professor at Politecnico di Torino's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS) and co-author of the study, said the findings confirm that technology alone will not be enough to develop floating offshore wind in the Mediterranean. She argued that clear regulation, strategic planning, port infrastructure, expertise and an industrial supply chain capable of growing alongside projects will all be required. Mattiazzo also highlighted the collaboration between the university and WindEurope as an example of how academic research can support industrial development and strategic decision-making.

WindEurope Deputy CEO Malgosia Bartosik said floating offshore wind has the potential to unlock a significant share of the Mediterranean's offshore renewable energy resources. However, she noted that the analysis shows successful deployment will require predictable regulation, coordinated grid planning, adequate port infrastructure and a supply chain capable of delivering projects that are credible, bankable and ready for construction.