Approval of the offshore renewable energy allocation plan (PAER)

Today was published the Resolution of the Council of Ministers no. 19/2025, dated 7 February, approving the Offshore Renewable Energy Allocation Plan (PAER).

This Plan outlines the areas and projected capacities within Portugal's national maritime space for the commercial development of offshore renewable energy. It focuses on ocean-based sources, including floating offshore wind energy and wave energy, specifically in maritime zones along Portugal’s western coast.

Together, these areas cover a total of 2,711.6 km², with a potential capacity of up to 9.4 GW. The designated areas and their respective capacities are as follows:

The selection of these locations was based on technical criteria that prioritized areas with optimal natural conditions for the sustainable development of ocean energy projects.

In response to the feedback received during the 2023 public consultation, as well as concerns regarding environmental impact and fishing activities, the Plan has been adjusted as follows:

• Reduction of the northern area of Viana do Castelo (previously with 1.9 GW of power capacity);
• Elimination of the southern area of Viana do Castelo;
• Adjustment to the area of Leixões (previously 2.0 GW); and
• Exclusion of the Ericeira maritime zone.

For the next steps, the use of these designated areas for commercial projects will proceed through government-initiated procedures, as outlined in Article 64 of Decree-Law no. 38/2015, dated 12 March. Such initiatives will officially designate the zones that will be included in a future public tender for the installation of offshore wind energy projects.

This Resolution shall enter into force on 8 February.

For further information regarding the PAER, you may access the full content of Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 19/2025, dated 7 February (only available in Portuguese).