#ICYMI TotalEnergies–RWE Consortium Wins France’s Largest Offshore Wind Tender; RWE Plans Exit
Published · 3 min read
France awarded the Centre Manche 2 offshore wind tender to a team led by TotalEnergies with RWE. The wind farm will have 1.5 GW of capacity and sit more than 40 km off the Normandy coast. It’s now the country’s largest renewable energy project.
The power price is fixed by the tender at €66/MWh. Expected output is about 6 TWh each year, enough for over one million homes. The plan calls for a final investment decision by early 2029 and first power in 2033.
RWE Signals an Exit
RWE has said it wishes to exit the consortium after a strategic review. This step needs approval from French authorities. TotalEnergies plans to proceed as operator and may invite a new partner later.
Why This Project Matters
- Scale: 1.5 GW, France’s largest offshore wind award so far.
- Location: More than 40 km off Normandy, near Calvados.
- Output: ~6 TWh/year, powering 1M+ homes.
- Price: €66/MWh as set by the tender.
- Timeline: FID by early 2029; generation from 2033.
Money, Jobs, and Local Plans
TotalEnergies says the project will require about €4.5 billion in investment. It’s the company’s largest investment in France in three decades. The firm plans to favor European suppliers, especially for turbines and cables.
Construction could employ up to 2,500 people over three years. Local factories and ports should see steady work. The operator also plans crowdfunding so residents and authorities can invest.
Community and nature funds are part of the plan. There’s a €10 million territorial fund for training, education, and culture. Another €45 million is for environmental measures, and €15 million for a biodiversity fund in Normandy.
At a Glance: Key Facts
| Item | Detail |
| Capacity | 1.5 GW |
| Location | > 40 km off Normandy |
| Annual Output | ~6 TWh |
| Households Served | 1M+ equivalent |
| Tender Price | €66/MWh |
| Investment | ~€4.5 billion |
| Jobs | Up to 2,500 during build |
| FID / First Power | Early 2029 / 2033 |
| RWE Status | Wishes to exit; approval needed |
Company View and Strategy
TotalEnergies’ CEO called the award a major step in the firm’s shift to low-carbon power. The company says the project proves its long-term commitment to France. It also points to competitive prices for French customers after startup.
The French state wants much more offshore wind by 2035 and 2050. This award supports that plan and sends a clear signal to suppliers. The project also helps build a skilled workforce in Normandy.
What Comes Next
The operator will continue studies, permits, and supplier work. Grid timing is linked to the national plan, so design must stay aligned. A new partner could join once approvals are in place.
There’s still risk, of course. Offshore wind faces supply chain tightness and changing rates. But early planning, local sourcing, and fixed pricing can help. The project’s funds for nature and training also build community trust.
Quick List: What Readers Should Know
- Biggest yet: Centre Manche 2 is France’s largest renewable project.
- Set price: Power will sell at €66/MWh under the tender.
- Local stake: Crowdfunding and a €10 million territorial fund are planned.
- Nature focus: €45 million for environmental steps and €15 million for biodiversity.
- RWE status: Plans to exit; TotalEnergies to keep leading.
Learn more: Visit the operator’s site at TotalEnergies.com for official updates and background on its energy transition strategy.
