South America is emerging as a promising region for offshore wind, with more than 100 projects identified across the region. Together, they represent approximately 230 gigawatts of potential capacity. But behind the numbers lie significant challenges: regulatory gaps, limited infrastructure and deep waters that demand floating wind solutions.
Carolina Preis, Senior Consultant at JUMBO Consulting Group and originally from Brazil, shares her insights on how developers are approaching these emerging markets and what they are learning along the way.
What makes South America a promising region for offshore wind, and what challenges lie ahead?
South America’s offshore wind potential lies mainly in the Brazilian and Colombian coasts, which offer consistent and strong wind speeds. Argentina and Chile also offer an interesting potential still to be explored.
A first pilot project is currently under development and is to be installed in Brazil with COD expected in 2027.
As to legal framework, Brazil published its first offshore wind law in January 2025, paving the way for auctions and seabed leasing. Colombia launched the CfD allocation round in August 2025 after two years of building up and assessing the interest from the industry.
The main challenges we see are, for example, (1) the lack of detailed regulation supporting auctions in Brazil and the fact that the Colombian legislation is mostly based on oil and gas permitting rules, (2) limited port capacity and the transmission infrastructure, (3) fluctuating exchange rates which impact long-term financing and investment planning.
What unique considerations arise when planning for offshore wind projects in South America?
Offshore wind development in South America faces distinct challenges compared to mature markets within Europe and Asia. Countries like Brazil and Colombia are still shaping regulatory frameworks, requiring developers to navigate evolving rules, while offering insights from established markets.
Many high-potential wind zones lack adequate transmission infrastructure, demanding significant upgrades. Brazil also faces curtailment issues with onshore wind and solar, which must be addressed.
South America’s rich marine biodiversity calls for thorough impact assessments. IBAMA is currently reviewing over 100 projects. Deep waters in Colombia and parts of Brazil necessitate floating wind technology. Additionally, early-stage supply chains will rely on Europe and APAC, conflicting with local content goals in some countries.
How does JUMBO support developers in overcoming infrastructure limitations and supply chain challenges when entering new offshore wind markets?
JUMBO can be a game-changer for developers who wish to enter new offshore wind markets. Our company provides strategic advice helping clients to bring their projects from early development stages through to FID, which is supported by our highly specialised project consultancy services in strategy, procurement and construction of offshore wind farms.
When entering a new market, the Client needs to have an understanding of the market dynamics, existing regulatory framework, the specifics of permitting and consenting, and the supply chain opportunities and challenges to realise offshore wind projects.
JUMBO Consulting Group has the expertise and experience necessary along with native Portuguese and Spanish speakers and local knowledge AND have the necessary global view of the offshore wind market.
Reach out to Carolina Preis or our team to learn how JUMBO Consulting Group supports developers in overcoming infrastructure limitations and supply chain challenges when entering new offshore wind markets: https://jumbocg.com/services