The French government has committed to funding the 17.5 MW FloWatt tidal energy pilot project with a sum of at least EUR65 million (US$71.7 million). This groundbreaking project is set to become the largest tidal farm in the world.
By supporting the project, France aims to take advantage of tidal energy as both an industrial opportunity and a key component in their efforts to transition to sustainable energy sources. This move also aligns with Europe's broader objective of increasing indigenous production to achieve electricity supply security.
The FloWatt tidal farm is a result of a strategic collaboration between Qair and HydroQuest. The project will install seven 2.5 MW turbines in Normandy's Raz Blanchard, known as one of the world's most promising tidal sites. With operations set to commence in 2026, the initiative is expected to meet the electricity needs of around 20,000 people for a span of 20 years.