The Port of Bilbao continues to strengthen its position as a strategic hub for offshore wind energy, with the Bilbao Port Authority approving a significant expansion of the concession held by Haizea Bilbao, S.L., part of the Haizea Wind Group.
The newly approved extension adds 128,668 square meters to Haizea Bilbao’s existing footprint on docks AZ-2 and AZ-3, directly adjacent to its current facility. This brings the total area under concession to approximately 340,000 square meters, making it one of the largest dockside facilities dedicated to offshore wind component manufacturing in Europe.
The decision by the Bilbao Port Authority aligns with Haizea Wind’s long-term phased expansion strategy and reflects broader efforts by the port to support industrial growth in renewable energy logistics. This development not only reinforces Bilbao’s ambitions in the offshore sector but also reflects its ability to adapt port real estate to match evolving industry demands.
Reallocation and Industrial Realignment
The extension follows a strategic reallocation of port space. Previous occupants of part of the newly assigned area—Servicios Logísticos Portuarios (SLP) and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy Eólica—have shifted their activities to Dock AZ-0 and the Central Breakwater, respectively. This shuffle is part of a broader spatial reorganisation aimed at optimising port operations and increasing synergies between logistics and manufacturing stakeholders in the renewable energy supply chain.
Haizea Wind has already invested over €300 million into its Bilbao operations, focusing on the production of offshore wind towers and foundation structures. The proximity to deep-water quays enables seamless transport of these massive components, a logistical advantage critical in offshore wind logistics.
A Growing Offshore Cluster
Haizea Wind is far from alone in leveraging the port’s capabilities. Since its arrival in 2018, the company has operated alongside a growing ecosystem of wind energy firms such as Euskalforging, Forjas de Iraeta, Laulagun, Navacel, Nordex Acciona, Sakana, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, and Vicinay Cadenas. Several of these companies also maintain production sites within port premises, benefiting from direct access to loading docks and export-ready infrastructure.
This cluster model not only simplifies logistics but also creates operational efficiencies across the wind energy value chain—from forged flanges and nacelle parts to rotors and complex electrical systems. The port’s hinterland is home to a high density of subcontractors and service providers catering to this sector, further reinforcing the area’s strategic value for offshore wind deployment.
Bilbao’s infrastructure—its deepwater berths, project cargo handling capacity, and multimodal connectivity—has become a compelling proposition for manufacturers looking to scale and export from a central European location.
Outlook for Offshore and Industrial Growth
The expansion also signals broader momentum for Spain’s offshore wind ambitions. As the country accelerates its transition to renewables, port infrastructure will play a critical role in enabling the manufacture, staging, and transport of large-scale components. By supporting the physical expansion of players like Haizea Wind, the Bilbao Port Authority is positioning itself to be at the forefront of this shift.
The newly granted area allows for increased production capacity and lays the groundwork for future projects tied to large offshore wind developments in Europe and beyond. With global demand for offshore turbines expected to surge, space, logistics integration, and proximity to skilled suppliers will remain key differentiators.
