The study is developed within the context of the SEANSE project with the aim of comparing and analysing different criteria applied by the North Sea countries when planning their offshore wind farms (OWF), while considering the environment and other sea uses.
QUESTIONS THIS PRACTICE MAY HELP ANSWER:
- What criteria are applied by the North Sea countries when planning the OWF?
IMPLEMENTATION CONTEXT:
The study is conducted in the context of the SEANSE project with the purpose of developing a coherent approach to Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) focused on renewable energy, in support of the development and effective implementation of MSPs.
ASPECTS / OBJECTIVES:
The aim of the study is to compare different criteria applied by countries when planning Offshore Wind Farms (OWF) in the North Sea.
METHOD:
As a first step, an overview of MSP and offshore wind development in the North Sea countries is provided, followed by the presentation of general criteria. The study then presents various sectoral arrangements for OWF, in relation to other marine uses in the North Sea region. OWF and other sea uses are analysed using the following categories: strict regulation, partial restriction or possible parallel usage (multi-use). Among conflicting activities, the study proposes the analyse of:
- Shipping routes
- Fisheries
- Flight safety
- Cables and pipelines
- Marine protected areas
- Species protection
MAIN OUTPUTS / RESULTS:
By comparing different national planning approaches, criteria, and standards, the key planning issues are identified, for which transboundary planning solutions shall be discussed in future collaboration. The main concern for the development of offshore wind energy is associated with adverse environmental effects. Further research and discussions are planned on this issue in the environmental subgroup of the North Sea Energy Cooperation. Spatial planning issues of a transboundary nature include, among others, coordinated grid planning, multi-use of space, data quality and accessibility. The support group 2 on the maritime spatial planning of the Energy Cooperation intends to develop concepts and scenarios on these planning topics, and to exchange experiences and best practices on spatial planning, site preparation and permissions for the offshore wind farms.
Overall, the multitude of planning conflicts underlines the need for MSP as a tool to balance the spatial needs of different sectors in the North Sea, while at the same time protecting the environment and biodiversity.
TRANSFERABILITY:
Although the study is developed for the North Sea, it could be applied in MSP for other European marine regions.
Responsible Entity:
SEANSE project
Funding Source:
Co-funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF).