Offshore wind energy is rapidly expanding worldwide. As of 2023, global offshore wind capacity has reached over 75 gigawatts (GW), with more than 300 operating projects hosting over 13,000 turbines. This growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing commitments to sustainable energy transitions. Colombia is positioning itself in Latin America as a regional leader in this sector, with its Caribbean coastline offering an estimated potential of approximately 50 gigawatts (GW) for offshore wind energy development. Although no offshore wind farms are operational in Colombia yet, interest and expectations are growing rapidly. According to the country’s Just Energy Transition Roadmap, the goal is to achieve 7 GW of installed offshore wind capacity by 2040. A significant milestone in this endeavor is the country’s first offshore wind auction, launched in December 2023. This auction focuses on allocating maritime areas off the coasts of the departments of Atlántico, Bolívar, Magdalena, and Sucre, targeting the installation of between 1 and 3 GW of offshore wind capacity. However, there is limited understanding of how local communities perceive these projects or how to ensure they support inclusive and equitable outcomes.
This project, conducted in collaboration with the Universidad de la Costa (CUC), explores the barriers and opportunities influencing the social acceptance of offshore wind energy and, more broadly, its role in advancing a just energy transition in Colombia. By engaging closely with local stakeholders, research networks, and decision-makers, the project aims to strengthen platforms for social dialogue, enhance information sharing and public awareness, and provide actionable recommendations to policymakers, community members, and the private sector. By centering local voices and building on regional knowledge, the project seeks to ensure that offshore wind energy development supports a just transition, one that delivers tangible local benefits, respects community priorities, and contributes to sustainable regional development.
Feature / How can we address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by offshore wind energy in Galerazamba?
Project / A new alliance championing socially responsible renewable energy implementation with meaningful participation and benefits for communities across the globe.
Program / This programme aims to build a collaborative platform to accelerate renewable energy deployment in La Guajira.
Project / This project aims to steer renewable energy development in La Guajira towards more equitable and socially beneficial paths.
Perspective / Calls in Colombia to increase gas production could set the country down an environmentally and financially perilous path despite cleaner energy alternatives.
Past event / This webinar presents a publication that brings together lessons learned from an exchange between Indigenous communities in Brazil and Colombia.
Other publication / Insights and reflections from the exchange between Indigenous communities in Colombia and Brazil regarding wind energy and their involvement.
