In October 2026, research company Norstat surveyed 1,001 Estonian residents aged 18 to 74 to gauge public concerns regarding offshore wind farms.
Trust in Impact Assessments
When assessing potential impacts, Estonians place the greatest trust in universities and research institutes, according to 53% of respondents. Local communities are considered trustworthy by 7% of residents, while 6% place their trust in environmental organizations.
Did You Know? The Norstat online survey was conducted from October 14–22, 2026, and gathered input from 1,001 Estonian residents aged 18–74.
Respondents express concerns about marine biodiversity and electricity prices
Marine environment and biodiversity impacts concern 44% of respondents, while effects on birds and bats worry 29%. Local quality of life and electricity price uncertainty each concern 28% of residents, and 27% point to fish populations and fisheries.
Residents also question whether economic benefits will reach local communities and whether decision-making processes can be trusted. Nearly one-third want direct benefits for local communities.
Information and Engagement Expectations
The most common expectation is receiving regular, easy-to-understand progress information, noted by 44% of respondents. Expressing views matters to 40%, and 33% emphasize independent impact assessments.
“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,” said Aivi Allikmets, ELWIND Project Manager at KIK.
“That is why it is essential that decisions are based on comprehensive research rather than assumptions,” Allikmets said. “It is equally important to understand the questions and concerns of local communities.”
Demographic Differences in Estonia
The survey reveals generational differences, as 52% of respondents aged 18–29 want regular information compared to 37% of those aged 60–74. Ethnic Russian respondents express greater concern over electricity prices and decision transparency.
These findings provide background for ELWIND, a joint pre-development offshore wind project between Estonia and Latvia. The project studies a marine area west of Saaremaa and is led in Estonia by the Environmental Investment Centre (KIK).
Questions about the Norstat survey and ELWIND project
Which organization conducted the survey?
Research company Norstat conducted the survey between October 14 and 22, 2026. It was commissioned by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).
How many people participated?
The online survey involved 1,001 Estonian residents aged 18 to 74.
Who leads the ELWIND project in Estonia?
In Estonia, the joint offshore wind energy project is led by the Environmental Investment Centre (KIK).
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