Ocean Winds, a joint venture between EDP Renewables (EDPR) and ENGIE, has completed the installation of the final turbine at its Îles d’Yeu and Noirmoutier (EMYN) offshore wind farm near Vendée, France.
This marks the shift to the facility’s full operational phase, concluding an offshore construction period of under three years amidst challenging weather conditions.
Located in the Atlantic Ocean near the coasts of the Yeu and Noirmoutier islands, the EMYN offshore wind farm has an installed capacity of around 488 MW.
Since June 2025, the project has gradually increased its electricity production for the country, activating each turbine sequentially as installation progressed.
Its 61 turbines currently provide renewable energy equivalent to the annual usage of nearly 800,000 individuals, aiding France’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
Ocean Winds CEO Craig Windram said: “The transition of EMYN from construction into full operation is a clear demonstration of Ocean Winds’ capability to deliver complex offshore wind projects at scale across European markets.
“This milestone reflects the maturity of our industrial model, the strength of our partnerships and our contribution to reinforcing energy security through the deployment of reliable, renewable generation assets. It marks an important step in our continued development in France.”
The project has generated around 2,400 direct and indirect jobs during its construction phase.
It has also spurred the development of local industry, including the establishment of a Siemens Gamesa factory in Le Havre for manufacturing blades and assembling nacelles.
The offshore substation, constructed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, further highlights the mobilisation of the French industrial base.
Ocean Winds engaged with local communities to ensure the wind farm’s integration with existing maritime activities.
Moving forward, it will generate approximately 80 long-term jobs, with 66 operations and maintenance roles centred on the island of Yeu.
Ocean Winds will concentrate on maintaining reliable performance and supporting employment while supplying renewable energy.
Ocean Winds France country manager Marc Hirt said: “The completion of EMYN’s construction and its entry into full operation show that offshore wind can be developed in France with strong local industrial integration and in close coexistence with sea users, creating lasting value for both the energy transition and local territories.
“Together with our ongoing projects, including Dieppe – Le Tréport, which has surpassed the halfway mark in foundation installations, EMYN’s track record strengthens Ocean Winds’ position for the next phase of offshore wind development in France.”
In January this year, Allianz Global Investors, on behalf of Allianz insurance companies, acquired a 20.25% stake in the EMYN wind farm from Ocean Winds.
