Offshore Electricity Grid Infrastructure in Europe: A Techno-Economic Assessment

The OffshoreGrid Project developed a science-based vision for an offshore grid in Northern Europe along with a suitable regulatory framework that considers technical, economic, policy and regulatory aspects. OffshoreGrid was targeted at European policy makers, industry, transmission system operators and regulators. The initial geographical scope was the regions around the Baltic and North Sea, English Channel and the Irish Sea. In a second phase, the results were applied to the Mediterranean region in qualitative terms.

In the preparatory phase, scenarios were developed as input for the modelling work. These included scenarios for wind power generation, electricity demand and generation, planned grid development, and technology developments, among others. The first modelling phase compared the costs and benefits of different offshore grid scenarios, focusing on the evaluation of offshore wind power hubs and on the combination with interconnectors. In the second phase, extra scenarios were calculated to further elaborate detailed conclusions, and an evaluation was done to illustrate how the overall European offshore grid could look. In last instance, results will be qualitatively translated to the Mediterranean situation.

Relevance for Maritime Spatial Planning

A high level of cooperation between Member States is crucial for a fast and optimal deployment of offshore renewable energies and related grid infrastructure. Maritime Spatial Plans need to take into consideration the specific features of offshore renewable energies, such as the development of a grid and the connection to land.

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Relevance for Maritime Spatial Planning

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