New reports from TGS | 4C anticipate process congestion points in the supply chain for offshore wind energy projects through 2040.
The accelerated growth of offshore wind energy is driving unprecedented demand for subsea cables, installation vessels, and logistics capacity, creating new pressures on the global supply chain for offshore projects.
This is revealed by two new reports published by TGS | 4C, specialists in offshore wind intelligence, which warn that the increase in project size and complexity could lead to structural constraints in manufacturing, installation, and vessel availability over the next decade.
Demand for subsea cables continues to grow
According to the analysis, the expansion of offshore wind energy and the increase in power interconnection projects are significantly accelerating the installation of subsea cables.
TGS | 4C data indicate that cables installed for offshore wind projects grew from 9,000 km in 2015 to 55,500 km in 2025, increasing sixfold in a decade. In addition, the firm projects the installation of an additional 117,640 km between 2026 and 2040.
The study also forecasts that subsea interconnectors and high-voltage cables installed between neighboring countries or regions will increase by 60,700 km over the same period.
Logistical constraints in offshore vessels are increasing
The offshore wind vessel supply-and-demand report for the first quarter of 2026 points to a transition toward higher-capacity vessels, especially in segments related to offshore installation and support.
Although Europe maintains a relatively stable supply in the short term, TGS | 4C warns that bottlenecks could emerge in key regions such as Asia-Pacific, where demand for installations for large turbines could exceed available capacity.
Inflation and pressure on offshore project costs
The company also identified a sustained increase in costs associated with subsea cable contracts and power transmission systems.
According to the research, turnkey contracts for HVDC systems are 30% higher than 2024 estimates, while HVAC contracts show increases of around 35%.
Factors driving this inflation include rising copper prices, supply chain constraints, and growing demand for offshore energy infrastructure.
“Offshore wind energy is poised for substantial expansion, with capacity expected to quintuple by 2040,” said Rameeza Duggal, lead analyst at TGS | 4C.
The specialist added that market growth will require more efficient coordination among manufacturers, logistics operators, and project developers to avoid delays and cost overruns.
TGS | 4C analyzes the future of offshore infrastructure
The reports are part of the 4C Intelligence platform, focused on offshore market analysis, energy infrastructure, and supply chains for marine projects.
The database used in the study includes information on 3,600 offshore wind farms in operation or development, as well as historical and projected contracts related to offshore supply and installation. TGS | 4C also announced that the findings will be discussed in a live webinar scheduled for May 19, 2026.
Source and photo: https://www.tgs.com/