A comprehensive marine spatial planning assessment commissioned by Cyprus's Department of Fisheries and Marine Research has identified 3 GW of technically viable offshore wind development potential in Cypriot territorial waters.
Development Zones
The assessment identified four primary development zones south of Limassol and southwest of Paphos with water depths of 500-1,500 meters suitable for floating platform wind turbines. Wind resource data indicates average capacity factors of 40-48% at proposed development sites, competitive with North Sea offshore wind.
Total area assessed for development: 2,400 square kilometers with minimum environmental impact. The study confirms that existing navigation corridors and fishing areas can be preserved while accommodating offshore wind infrastructure.
Implementation Timeline
The Department plans competitive tenders for 500 MW of capacity in 2027, with subsequent phases adding 250 MW annually through 2035. Combined with planned solar expansion, offshore wind would enable Cyprus to exceed its 35% renewable energy target by 2030.
