Energy ministers from European countries surrounding the North Sea are set to pledge to quadruple offshore wind energy capacity by the end of the decade. This commitment will turn the region into an engine of renewable power. The countries aim to build wind farms, develop energy “islands,” and launch projects to produce renewable hydrogen at sea.
The seven European Union countries that are pledging are Germany, France, and the Netherlands, along with non-EU countries the United Kingdom and Norway. This move is aimed at ending Europe's reliance on Russian fossil fuels after Moscow slashed gas supplies last year following its invasion of Ukraine.
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“In response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine and attempts of energy blackmail against Europe we will accelerate our efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption as well as dependence on fossil fuel imports,” the draft said.
The nine countries are aiming for a combined 120 gigawatts (GW) of North Sea offshore wind capacity by 2030, and to more than double that to 300GW by 2050. Currently, the same countries have around 30GW of offshore wind installed.
The UK's individual aim is to build 50GW of offshore wind by 2030, while Germany plans 26.4GW, the Netherlands 21GW, and Belgium 6GW. Belgium, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands also plan to form a cluster of energy islands.
The countries will collaborate more to protect their offshore energy assets from security threats and cyber attacks, and ensure that plans to expand energy production at sea do not damage the marine environment or local communities.
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“The North Sea has a huge potential to help us achieve our climate goals and energy security objectives. The further development of offshore wind energy is a win-win situation,” said German Energy Minister Peter Altmaier.
This commitment will play a critical role in Europe's transition to renewable energy sources. With offshore wind being one of the most efficient and cost-effective renewable energy sources, it has the potential to power millions of homes across Europe, while also contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
