Institute Tsipras Criticizes Greece's Offshore Wind Site Choices

The Institute of Alternative Policies (INAT), also known as the Tsipras Institute, has challenged the Greek government's recent decision to allocate 2,350 MW for offshore wind farms in the Thracian Sea and Patras Gulf. The institute argues that the selected sites conflict with scientific data, raise environmental concerns, and lack economic viability and transparency.

INAT acknowledges the positive allocation of 250 MW for Crete, citing strong wind resources and a low levelized cost of electricity (around €60/MWh). However, it warns that the 600 MW planned for the Thracian Sea—where pilot projects are slated for Evros and Samothraki—lies within Natura 2000 protected areas, has low average wind speeds, and could incur higher costs (€80‑100/MWh). The institute proposes alternative locations outside protected zones and within the Greek exclusive economic zone near Egypt, which it says offer better wind conditions and no visual impact on coastal communities.