How risky is the development of Offshore Wind Farms on a Mediterranean island?A case study in Paros, Greece

Offshore Wind Farms (OWFs) play a key role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change. However, their feasibility and public acceptance remain uncertain due to environmental, economic, and societal concerns. This study assesses the risks and opportunities of a hypothetical OWF development on the island of Paros, Greece. Using a structured Operational Risk Management approach, stakeholders—including government officials, local authorities, tourism representatives, NGOs, civil society, and academics—evaluated the project's potential negative and positive impacts across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Key findings reveal significant disagreements among stakeholders, particularly between local communities and government bodies. Environmental concerns, such as seafloor disruption, noise pollution, and bird collisions were prominent, while economic benefits like job creation and blue economy expansion were positively received. Social resistance, driven by the Not-In-My-Backyard effect, emerged as a major obstacle, highlighting the need for enhanced transparency, participatory planning, and public engagement. The research emphasises the importance of inclusive decision-making, strategic risk mitigation, and effective communication to balance renewable energy goals with local concerns. While the project analysis offers considerable long-term benefits in energy security, environmental sustainability, and economic development, its success hinges on addressing socioeconomic and ecological challenges.