European governments led by Germany, Britain and Denmark will on Monday reaffirm plans to accelerate the expansion of offshore wind energy, according to a draft declaration seen by Reuters.
The commitment will be signed at a summit in Hamburg by nine countries, including Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Norway.
The governments aim to meet a collective target of 300 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2050, with up to 100 GW to be delivered through joint cross-border projects.
The move comes despite criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos described wind turbines as uneconomic and harmful.
European leaders say expanding offshore renewables is key to securing stable, affordable energy, boosting industrial competitiveness and creating jobs.
They also argue it will strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports.
The declaration acknowledges challenges such as rising financing and equipment costs, which have led to failed wind auctions in some North Sea countries.
To address this, governments plan to increase financial support, including possible EU budget guarantees and subsidies like contracts for difference.
Wind and solar power generated more electricity than fossil fuels in the EU for the first time last year.
The pledge signals Europe’s determination to stay on course with its low-carbon transition despite political and economic pressures.