Tidal farms face delays in France

The waiting period appears endless for the project developers of the two tidal farms that are supposed to be built off the coasts of Normandy. Eight months after the publication of the PPE3, the start of construction is still not possible due to administrative reasons.

2026's tidal energy promise delayed

2026 was supposed to be a turning point for French tidal energy, but it will ultimately require more patience from the actors of a sector still in a standstill. However, the year had a good start with the inclusion of a 250 MW tender in the third Multi-Year Energy Programming (PPE).

Projects stuck on administrative hurdles

Several months later, the two main French projects, which are supposed to be built in the Raz Blanchard, in Normandy, are still at the same point. Indeed, the subsidies and other permits have been validated, but the State has not yet validated a tariff decision, which prevents the start of any work.

Government prepares to notify Europe

Almost six months have passed since the situation has been stagnant. Fortunately, most of the waiting period may be behind: the government is reportedly preparing to notify the European Commission of the support measures that are being considered for the two tidal projects Flowatt and NH1.

Raz Blanchard's potential for tidal energy

The two projects concerned are supposed to be built in one of Europe's most geographically favorable sites, namely the Raz Blanchard. Both use different tidal turbine technologies. Flowatt is relying on vertical-axis tidal turbines, manufactured in Cherbourg by the company CMN.

Different technologies for the two projects

On the other hand, Normandie Hydroliennes is using a more common technology with the AR3000, a kind of large sister to the recently tested AR1500 tidal turbine off the coast of Japan.

Flowatt project details

The Flowatt project is being developed by HydroQuest, Qair and CMN, and will use six HQ 2.8 tidal turbines with a total project power of 17 MW. The estimated annual production is 41 GWh/year, and the tidal turbines will be installed at a depth of 35 meters.

NH1 project details

The NH1 project is being developed by Normandie Hydroliennes and will use four AR3000 tidal turbines with a total project power of 12 MW. The estimated annual production is 34 GWh/year, and the tidal turbines will be installed at a depth of 38 meters.