Europe’s offshore wind industry supported around 180,000 full-time equivalent jobs in 2025 and generated about EUR 26 billion in gross value added, according to an analysis by Menon Economics and TGS | 4C.
Of the total employment impact, around 55,000 jobs were linked directly to companies supplying goods and services to offshore wind projects. A further 125,000 jobs were supported through the wider supply chain.
Construction and development of new offshore wind farms accounted for the largest share, supporting about 155,000 jobs. Operations and maintenance activities contributed approximately 25,000 jobs.
Construction-related activity generated around EUR 16 billion in value creation. Operating offshore wind assets contributed about EUR 10 billion, including EUR 7 billion from electricity production and EUR 3 billion from operations and maintenance services.
The largest economic effects were seen in Germany, the UK, Denmark, Spain and the Netherlands. Norway, France, Poland and Belgium also gained significant value from manufacturing, installation, maritime transport and engineering services.
The analysis described 2025 as a transitional year for the sector. Higher costs and difficult auction conditions continued to affect the market, while major project pipelines, record offtake awards and pressure to meet 2030 renewable energy targets supported long-term activity.
The report also found that more than 80% of employment effects came from building new offshore wind farms. As installed capacity increases, operating assets are expected to represent a growing share of Europe’s offshore wind value creation.
