Sustainable Marine Environment Management for Offshore Renewable Energy Production

EUKI project BLUECEE establishes exchange formats on offshore wind energy. Thereby the project strengthens the capacity for decisive action and good governance in Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, and Romania.

This policy paper “Sustainable and Fair Management of Marine Environment, Enabling Offshore Renewable Energy Production in Emerging CEE Markets” emphasises the importance of Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) in achieving the EU’s climate and biodiversity goals. Europe reached 32 GW of offshore wind capacity in 2023, far below the level needed to meet the EU’s 2030 climate goals (88 GW). To stay on track, EU countries must allocate at least 3% of their maritime territory to offshore wind energy. By 2022, EU coastal countries had made progress, identifying areas for 220 GW of offshore wind capacity in their spatial plans. MSPs should follow an ecosystem-based approach, be legally binding, and include conflict-resolution measures. Regular updates and comprehensive stakeholder engagement will improve planning and ensure sustainable offshore energy development.