Project info

Goal

Estonian climate and energy policy envisages a significant increase in the volume of renewable energy production, which is why in order to meet the objectives of national climate policy, it is necessary to find new wind farm development areas in high-potential wind energy production areas, including offshore areas.

The aim of the offshore wind farm project in the Gulf of Riga is to contribute to increasing Estonia's renewable energy production and security of supply in the Baltic Sea region through the establishment of a competitive offshore wind farm.

Location

The offshore wind farm is planned in the Gulf of Riga, 10 km away from the island of Kihnu. The development area of the offshore wind farm is determined by the spatial plan of the offshore area bordering Pärnu County.

Main parameters

Building permit area size: 183 km2
Technology selection: to be specified during technical research
Connection: Kilingi-Nõmme, Audru or Sindi substation
Distance from the island of Kihnu: 10 km
Distance from Häädemeeste: 16 km
Distance from Pärnu Beach: 40 km

Project

The offshore wind farm is designed with a capacity of up to 1,000 MW and with 50-100 wind turbines depending on their height and other technical parameters. Although in 2010, 160 wind turbines were estimated to be needed to build a 1,000 MW wind farm, the expected number of wind turbines was significantly reduced due to the development of wind turbine technology.

The equipment of the wind farm is interconnected by submarine cables. Cables lead to the mainland in the Häädemeeste area as well as to the direction of Latvia when a cross-border connection is established. The exact number and location of wind turbines, substations and anemometers as well as the final location of the transmission line route will be determined as a result of the environmental impact assessment and technical research.

Conceptual engineering design of the wind farm

The analysis of the technical solutions for the wind farm in the Gulf of Riga was completed in the beginning of 2023. The conceptual design was prepared by an international engineering and consulting company with many years of experience – BLIX Consultancy. The analysis proposed solutions for the wind farm that would be technically feasible and possible considering the environment. This information is important for developers, authorities, and partners.

BLIX Consultancy analyzed solutions for various wind turbines, foundations, substations, and ground facilities. The developed technical solution will also be used as input for the environmental impact assessment.

The preparation of the project is co-financed by the European Union.


Related topics