Ahead of the commencement of the procedures for the first Portuguese offshore wind auction, the Public Consultation on the Proposal for Offshore Renewable Energies Zoning Plan ("PAER") on the Portuguese seabed allocation for windfarm projects will be open from October 30 to December 13, 2023.

The need to designate areas for offshore wind farms requires an effort to reconcile activities in the national maritime space, particularly commercial fishing, and environmental conservation.

In the preparation of its Preliminary Environmental Report, the working group appointed by the Portuguese government concluded that there are significant knowledge gaps, especially concerning the complexity and state of marine ecosystems and the impact of infrastructure installation on the marine environment.

By discussing them with all the relevant industry sectors and stakeholders, it is possible to combine uses and activities in the national maritime space while respecting marine ecosystems and safeguarding underwater cultural heritage.

The Portuguese government has in mind that the use of maritime space should not be exclusive. And that, on the contrary, different activities must coexist, considering various constraints such as biodiversity protection, safeguarding fishing, maritime transport, recreation, leisure, and cultural heritage.

The release of the Final Environmental Report expected before the end of December and will incorporate all necessary amendments and adjustments to prevent significant environmental impacts, taking into account the contributions from the Public Consultation.