Goal of the event. Not only potential investors, but also industries operating in Klaipėda are preparing for the construction of the first offshore wind energy park in Lithuania.

The “Wind of Change” (“Pokyčių vėjas“) forum is being initiated in order to more widely share knowledge about the preparation processes and to discuss the importance of this infrastructure not only for strengthening energy independence and providing new possibilities for the business, but also in the context of increasing the prosperity of the Klaipėda region. The event will take place in Klaipėda on December 7, 2022.

Context. It is expected that the offshore wind park could produce up to 2 TWh of green electricity per year. It is estimated that this 700 MW power plant park, which is expected to start operating in 2028, would cover up to a quarter of Lithuania’s electricity needs.

In total, at least 4 offshore wind power parks could be developed on the coast of Lithuania. The capacity and installation timing of the other parks will depend on future research and other preparatory work timing.

The construction of the first wind park in Lithuania would attract about 1 bn EUR investments and provide ~ 1,300 new jobs. This project marks a certain turning point in assuming responsibility for a cleaner and more sustainable environment for the current and future generations. This project is also very important for the growth of municipalities in the coastal region. The offshore energy stands as one of the priorities and a significant area of the blue economy direction of the Klaipėda region’s specialization. Facing the upcoming changes brought by this project the local municipalities also welcome new opportunities for residents, young talents and deeper cooperation between the public sector, business and academia.