Offshore renewable energy in the EU – Ambitious plans for growth but sustainability remains a challenge

Summary:

The EU strategy for offshore renewable energy sets ambitious deployment targets for 2030 and 2050. We examined whether the Commission and the member states had promoted the sustainable development of offshore renewable energy. We found that while their actions have supported this type of energy, ensuring its social and environmental sustainability remains a challenge. Maritime spatial planning facilitated the allocation of sea space, but has not resolved conflicts relating to its use. Thus far, the socioeconomic implications of developing offshore renewables have not been studied in sufficient depth, and numerous environmental aspects have yet to be recognised. Against this backdrop, we recommend putting in place actions to boost the development of offshore renewable energy, while ensuring environmental and social sustainability.

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