The Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) has announced three new members: Senegal, Türkiye and the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. Senegal’s membership reflects its interest in assessing offshore wind potential as part of its energy transition plans. The country’s energy strategy is guided by Vision Sénégal 2050, its Just Energy Transition Partnership and its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0).
A 2020 World Bank study estimated Senegal’s offshore wind technical potential at 45 GW, comprising 13 GW of fixed-bottom and 32 GW of floating offshore wind. Development could complement existing solar and onshore wind generation and contribute to meeting future electricity demand. Senegal's accession follows that of Kenya in June 2026, extending the alliance's engagement in Africa. A separate study estimates the continent's offshore wind technical potential at 6,750 GW.
Türkiye's membership comes as the country prepares to develop its offshore wind sector. Its offshore wind technical potential is estimated at 75 GW, including substantial floating wind resources. Türkiye plans to launch its first offshore wind tender by the end of 2026, with the first turbines expected to be installed in 2030–2031. The country has set a net-zero emissions target for 2053 and is seeking to diversify its energy supply and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. Its existing onshore wind manufacturing capacity, shipbuilding and maritime industries could also support the development of an offshore wind supply chain.
The State of Rio de Janeiro has also joined the alliance, adding a subnational government to GOWA's membership. Rio de Janeiro is involved in Brazil's emerging offshore wind sector. Site investigation work began earlier in 2026 for an 18 MW pilot project off the state's coast, which is the first offshore wind development in South America to enter a formal licensing process. The World Bank estimates Brazil's offshore wind technical potential at more than 1,200 GW. A World Bank Group study has also estimated that the sector could create more than 516,000 jobs by 2050 and contribute at least BRL 900 billion (approximately USD 178.5 billion) to the Brazilian economy. Brazil is already a member of GOWA at national level.
