Going on the offensive with climate work requires major forward-looking strategies. The European Commission has previously presented a strategy for hydrogen. Now the next big strategy has been presented . The investment is directed towards an expansion of offshore wind power. The EU’s First Vice-President described the strategy as a benefit for both the environment and the economy.
The strategy is to promote a major expansion of offshore wind power from the current 12 gigawatts to at least 60 gigawatts by 2030 and then 300 GW by 2050. The European Commission also wants to support the development and expansion of tidal energy, energy from wave power and liquid solar energy where the technologies should reach at least 40 GW by 2050.
To achieve these goals by 2050, it is estimated to require investments of 800 billion euros. Investments must primarily come from private actors, but the EU must also financially support the development. The expansion means a faster upscaling of renewable energy than has ever happened before.
In order to promote investment, the Commission will focus on three parts:
One part is to provide a clear and supportive legal framework. The aim is that a revision of the guidelines for state aid for environmental protection and energy and the directive on renewable energy will facilitate the expansion of offshore renewable energy.
The second part is by mobilizing all relevant means to support the development of the sector and strengthen the supply chain. The Commission encourages Member States to invest in offshore energy through cooperation with the European Investment Bank and other financial institutions. Research and development of less developed technologies will be supported within Horizon Europe The EU Framework Program for Research and Innovation.
The third focus area is to strengthen the supply chain. This means, for example, increasing production capacity and developing port infrastructure. The market for offshore renewable energy is growing rapidly, where the EU sees opportunities for European companies to play a major and important role.
The EU Energy Commissioner emphasized that the strategy provides a clear direction and a stable regulatory framework that is important for the work ahead. The Energy Commissioner also emphasizes Europe as a world leader in offshore renewable energy and thus has the chance to become an engine for global development.
Offshore energy production is growing strongly and with the strategy, another step is now being taken along the way.
Photo: Princess Amalia Wind Farm (Q7 Wind park) – an offshore wind farm in the Netherlands, photographed by Ad Meskens .
