The Offshore Wind Port Alliance, comprising six prominent wind ports in Europe, has issued a resolution urging stronger political commitment and increased support for the offshore sector. In a collective effort, the alliance, representing Port Oostende (Belgium), Groningen Seaports/Eemshaven (Netherlands), Niedersachsen Ports/Cuxhaven (Germany), Nantes-Saint Nazaire Port (France), Humber (UK), and Port Esbjerg (Denmark), emphasizes the need for additional measures to secure value chains and alleviate administrative burdens crucial for achieving ambitious offshore sector targets in the next three decades.
The resolution underscores the importance of building the necessary capacity to meet the sector’s lofty goals. The alliance advocates for measures that assure value chains at offshore base ports, ensuring a steady supply flow and enhancing the attractiveness of port areas as workplaces. This, in turn, is expected to facilitate the recruitment of skilled labor, addressing a critical need in the rapidly growing offshore wind industry.
Dennis Jul Pedersen, Chief Executive of Port Esbjerg, emphasized the significance of political recognition and support, stating, “If we are to successfully deliver on the ambitious targets for offshore wind, it’s crucial that politicians across Europe recognize and support our efforts to develop additional port capacity.” He further highlighted the shared ambition among all alliance members to play a pivotal role in transforming European offshore power plants into a reality. Pedersen stressed the necessity for clearly defined political goals and strategies that align with and bolster the alliance’s objectives.
The Offshore Wind Port Alliance’s call for political backing reflects the industry’s collective push to navigate challenges, streamline processes, and ensure the sustained growth of the offshore wind sector in Europe.
