The number of offshore areas deemed suitable for wind energy installations appear set to be increased to facilitate sector investments, according to upcoming revisions to the country’s spatial plan for renewables.

A revised spatial plan for renewables and a related ministerial decision, both drafted by specialized consultants, have been forwarded to the energy ministry for approval ahead of consultation, energypress sources have informed.

Though a specific schedule for the revised spatial plan on renewables has not been set, officials are aiming for a ministerial decision by the end of the year, sources informed.

In general, criteria that characterize the existing spatial plan and take into account factors such as wind potential, tourism development and environmental matters for location suitability are expected to be maintained.

As for offshore wind farm regulations, the new spatial plan will forbid installations in certain areas such as official marine parks, areas with maritime antiquities or protected shipwrecks, aquaculture development areas, enclosed bays and passenger shipping lines.

Also, offshore wind farm installations –  still a nascent sector in Greece – will need to comply with distance rules, including a minimum of one nautical mile (1852 m) from the coastline or enclosed bays.

The revised spatial plan for renewables will also be submitted to the Council of State, Greece’s supreme administrative court, for a formal review to ensure no legal gaps may undermine its implementation. This high-level inspection comes as a result of legal issues that have affected the existing spatial plan.