International call for interest in building offshore wind farm
A “milestone” moment in efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels has been reached as a procurement process for the country’s first offshore wind project was launched by the Regulatory Authority of Bermuda.
In an announcement today, the RA said it hoped that up to 120 megawatts of renewable energy could be secured from turbines located off the north shore.
The authority said: “This milestone marks a significant step in Bermuda’s journey to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system.
“The RA is inviting developers from around the world to express their interest in building and operating an offshore wind farm that could provide a major new source of power for the island, while also attracting green investment.”
It explained that the project was expected to be rolled out in phases, beginning with an initial installed capacity of 60MW, expanding to 120MW over time.
The RA said that a preferred site was identified about 9km north of St George’s Island, in waters that are about 15m deep with consistent wind speeds averaging 7.8m per second, at 100m in height.
It added: “A recent pre-feasibility independent study found the site technically suitable and economically promising, with no major environmental concerns identified.”
Nigel Burgess, the head of regulation at the RA, said: “Offshore wind presents a compelling opportunity for Bermuda.
“By opening the door to this kind of large-scale renewable energy, we will not only lower our exposure to global fuel price shocks but also create space for long-term investment that benefits both the economy and the environment.”
The procurement process will be carried out in three stages — an expression of interest, a request for qualification and an invitation to tender.
“Interested developers are now invited to submit an EOI, providing an overview of their experience, technical capabilities and an indicative (non-binding) offtake price,” the RA said.
Meanwhile, the RA will commission further studies to support the project, including a seabed assessment and a wind metocean measurement campaign.
Metocean refers to the combined effect of meteorological and oceanographic conditions on offshore structures.
The authority said: “These efforts will provide potential bidders with the information they need to evaluate the opportunity and invest confidently.
“The RA’s role in this process is not just about procurement — it is about shaping Bermuda’s energy future in line with its legislated mandate to promote affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity for all.
“Given the island’s limited land space and high energy costs, offshore wind offers a promising solution that aligns with community needs and the broader goal of energy independence.”
Mr Burgess added: “This is not just a utility-scale project, it’s a chance for Bermuda to lead the way in renewable energy innovation across the region.
“We are excited to begin this journey and to welcome partners who share our vision for a cleaner, more secure energy future.”
The latest Integrated Resource Plan, submitted in 2023 and updated in May 2024, sought to more than halve Bermuda’s carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 with investment in renewable energy including solar power, offshore wind power and biomass fuels.
It called for procurement to begin “as soon as possible” for 20MW of solar power generation, and 60MW of offshore wind power.
The plan said that offshore wind power was a “major component of the preferred portfolio” and could be in service by 2028.
Interested parties will find the EOI and related documents on the RA’s website at ra.bm/offshorewindfarm.
The RA noted that only those who submit an EOI will be eligible to proceed to the next phase of the process.
• To see the Expression of Interest form, see Related Media
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