South Africa is considering the development of offshore wind projects despite the historical focus on onshore wind. The potential benefits include job creation, local manufacturing opportunities, and infrastructure development. A panel discussion highlighted the socio-economic advantages of such initiatives. Studies indicate that offshore wind could contribute significantly to the country's energy mix, with projections ranging from 15% to 25% by 2050 and opportunities for 95GW of projects. Different growth scenarios have varying impacts on job creation and energy costs, with a high growth scenario linked to a green hydrogen economy. Policy development is vital to support the sector, with considerations for local investment and environmental assessments. Stakeholder engagement and early planning are emphasized to ensure timely project development and economic benefits.