The European Investment Bank (EIB) is considering a request for funding for the French offshore wind projects Saint-Nazaire and Fecamp.
EDF and Enbridge are developing the 480MW Saint-Nazaire and 498MW Fecamp projects off the French Atlantic coast.
The developers have placed a request with the bank, for an undisclosed amount, on the grounds that offshore wind energy projects support EU and national renewable energy targets, while contributing to the security of energy supply and environmental goals.
As one of the conditions of providing funding the EIB requires the developers to ensure contracts for the implementation of the project are tendered in accordance with the relevant applicable EU procurement legislation as interpreted by the EU’s Court of Justice, with publication of tender notices in the Official Journal of the EU.
Meanwhile the State Council, France’s highest court, is expected to issue a final decision in the next few weeks, following its hearing yesterday of a final appeal against the concession for Saint-Nazaire.
If cleared, the project could reach financial close within a few months, it is understood.
Commissioning is planned for 2022 or 2023.
Saint-Nazaire will feature GE 6MW turbines.