The Welsh Government has officially launched its Offshore Wind Task and Finish Group Action Plan 2025–2026, an ambitious blueprint to unlock the full economic and environmental potential of up to 15 GW of offshore wind around Welsh waters. The plan follows hot on the heels of last week’s announcement confirming two successful bidders to deliver 3 GW of floating wind in the Celtic Sea, with a third site to be leased shortly, bringing the region’s first commercial leasing round to a total of 4.5 GW.

The action plan outlines a series of targeted, practical measures aimed at unlocking more than £32 billion in economic value, including £4.8 billion in opportunities for Welsh businesses and over 3,000 high-quality jobs. Developed by a cross-sector expert group, the strategy sets out how to turn Wales’ natural offshore wind resources into long-term community, industrial and economic benefits.

RenewableUK Cymru has welcomed the plan, calling it an “ambitious and actionable roadmap” for transforming Wales’ clean energy potential into a national success story.

“We’re pleased to see clear, practical actions that respond directly to industry calls for greater certainty, stronger collaboration, and urgent delivery,” said Ajai Ahluwalia, Head of Supply Chain at RenewableUK. “Offshore wind is one of the UK’s greatest industrial opportunities — with the potential to revitalise Wales’ heartland sectors like steel and advanced manufacturing. Over the next decade alone, £32 billion in economic value is at stake — including £4.8 billion for Welsh firms and 3,370 well-paid jobs. We must now move quickly from planning to delivery — and industry is ready to play its part.”

Key actions in the plan include:

• Providing long-term visibility for leasing rounds and revenue support to give investors and developers the certainty they need.

• Strengthening planning and consenting frameworks, ensuring regulatory bodies are properly resourced and processes are streamlined for major projects.

• Creating a competitive and supportive investment environment for Welsh ports — including financial backing and a new Welsh Ports Prospectus to promote local capabilities.

• Attracting a major engineering or construction contractor to anchor long-term economic activity in Wales and help build a robust local supply chain.

• Establishing a dedicated Welsh Government delivery team to implement the plan and maintain momentum.

The Task and Finish Group, convened by the First Minister in January 2025, brought together senior leaders from across government, industry, education, port infrastructure and supply chains to ensure a cohesive, cross-sectoral strategy.

With the Crown Estate now committed to leasing a third site in the Celtic Sea, the full 4.5 GW from this first leasing round signals the beginning of a new era for Wales in offshore wind — and the 2025–2026 action plan lays the groundwork to ensure that this clean energy boom delivers lasting value for communities, workers and the wider economy.