A recent survey shows that the main concern among Estonians regarding the development of offshore wind farms is their potential impact on the marine environment and biodiversity. When it comes to assessing these impacts, research institutions are the most trusted, while people also expect regular updates and opportunities to have their say.
In October, research company Norstat surveyed Estonian residents to find out their main concerns regarding offshore wind farms, which organisations they trust to assess potential impacts, and how they would like to be involved in the planning of offshore wind developments. The findings also provide valuable background information for the preparation of ELWIND, a joint offshore wind energy project between Estonia and Latvia. The Estonian findings form part of a broader survey conducted across the three Baltic States.
When it comes to assessing the potential impacts of offshore wind farms, Estonians place the greatest trust in universities and research institutes, named by 53% of respondents. Local communities were considered the most trustworthy source by 7% of respondents, while 6% placed their trust in environmental organisations.
The greatest concern is the impact on the marine environment and biodiversity
Potential impacts on the marine environment and biodiversity were identified as a concern by 44% of respondents. Nearly one-third expressed concern about the potential effects on birds and bats (29%) and local quality of life (28%). The same proportion of respondents (28%) highlighted uncertainty surrounding electricity prices. Potential impacts on fish populations and fisheries were mentioned by 27% of respondents.
In addition, people are concerned about whether the economic benefits generated by offshore wind farms will reach local residents and to what extent decision-making processes related to these developments can be trusted.
People expect clear information and meaningful engagement
The most common expectation is to receive regular, easy-to-understand information about the progress of developments and their potential impacts. This was highlighted by 44% of respondents. The opportunity to express their views was considered important by 40%, while 33% emphasised the need for independent impact assessments.
Nearly one-third of respondents (32%) would like offshore wind farms to generate direct benefits for local communities. Public discussions and meetings were considered important by 26% of respondents.
The survey also reveals differences between demographic groups. For example, 52% of respondents aged 18–29 would like to receive regular and clear information, compared with 37% of those aged 60–74. Respondents of Russian ethnicity expressed greater concern than ethnic Estonians about uncertainty surrounding electricity prices and the transparency and reliability of decision-making processes.
The findings suggest that communication and engagement activities should take into account the expectations of different target groups. In addition to environmental impacts, it is also important to explain the potential economic implications of offshore wind developments.
Comprehensive research is at the heart of the ELWIND project
ELWIND is a joint pre-development offshore wind energy project between Estonia and Latvia. As part of the project, a marine area west of Saaremaa is being studied to determine whether, and under what conditions, it could be suitable for offshore wind energy production. The project involves environmental and technical studies, the results of which will provide a basis for assessing potential impacts and making further decisions. In Estonia, the project is led by the Environmental Investment Centre (KIK).
According to Aivi Allikmets, ELWIND Project Manager at KIK, the survey findings help provide a better understanding of the issues surrounding offshore wind farms that matter most to people.
“When planning an offshore wind farm, the first step is to understand the natural state of the marine area and how potential development could affect it. That is why it is essential that decisions are based on comprehensive research rather than assumptions. It is equally important to understand the questions and concerns of local communities. The Norstat survey provides us with additional insight into the issues that matter most to people and the areas where greater clarity is needed,” said Allikmets.
The Norstat online survey was conducted from 14 to 22 October 2026 and involved 1,001 Estonian residents aged 18–74. The survey explored concerns related to offshore wind farms, levels of trust in different stakeholders, and expectations regarding public engagement. Respondents could select more than one answer to several questions; therefore, the percentages may add up to more than 100%. The survey was commissioned by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).