EC targets 300 GW of offshore wind, 40 GW of ocean energy by 2050

The European Commission (EC) on Thursday laid out a strategy to boost its offshore wind capacity to at least 60 GW by the end of the decade and even 300 GW by 2050 from the current 12 GW.

Moreover, the EC will be aiming to have 40 GW of ocean energy and other emerging technologies, including floating wind and solar, by 2050. These objectives will require a total investment of close to EUR 800 billion (USD 949.5bn) between now and mid-century, the commission estimates.

The EU Strategy on Offshore Renewable Energy involves encouraging cross-border cooperation between Member States on long-term planning and deployment, which, in turn, will require the integration of offshore renewables development goals in the National Maritime Spatial Plans. These are to be deployed by coastal states by March 2021.

The commission has committed to provide a clear and supportive legal framework, help mobilise all relevant funds and ensure a bolstered supply chain.

“We must step up our game by harnessing all the potential of offshore wind and by advancing other technologies such as wave, tidal and floating solar. This Strategy sets a clear direction and establishes a stable framework, which are crucial for public authorities, investors and developers in this sector,” said Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson. In turn, the commissioner for environment, oceans and fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, commented that the proposals are designed to protect biodiversity.

(EUR 1.0 = USD 1.187)

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