Multi-source offshore renewable energy parks, where wave & offshore solar energy are integrated in an offshore wind park, are greatly beneficial to the energy transition. Understanding that the large-scale deployment of such parks is largely dependent on the right policy frameworks and on efficient engagement with local  stakeholders, the Dutch Marine Energy Centre (DMEC), POM West-Vlaanderen, and the EU-SCORES project hosted the second edition of the EU-SCORES Stakeholder Engagement Event. Under the theme ‘Accelerating offshore multi-source renewable energy parks’, the Policy Summit & Local Stakeholder Event took place on July 1st & 2nd in Belgium.

EU Perspectives

Representatives from four EC Directorate Generals provided their insights on multi-source offshore energy parks and broader policy developments. DG ENER highlighted that member states should include multi-use areas in their national marine spatial plans (MSPs). In March 2025, detailed recommendations on the integration of non-price criteria in tenders will be published by DG ENER. DG MARE emphasised optimising marine space through maritime spatial plans (MSPs) and discussed the importance of co-existence. with lessons drawn from offshore solar. 

Nature was a concurring theme throughout the discussions from the EU. DG ENV discussed biodiversity protection through the recently adopted Nature Restoration Law, which aims for 30% protected area and promotes win-win solutions. The need for robust environmental monitoring was also highlighted. 

A significant share of future energy will come from sources that are not yet on the market today, as shared by DG RTD. They presented an evaluation framework for ocean energy technology and affirmed that supporting funding schemes, such as HORIZON Europe and the Innovation Fund are available to support innovation in energy technologies. 

National Perspectives

Next to the DGs, three national representatives shared their strategies and ambitions. 

Ireland presented its new independent agency MARA – Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, which oversees the use of the maritime area and is responsible for permitting processes. The Irish representative also discussed the development of the “Future Policy Framework for Offshore Renewable Energy”, which mentions multi-use as an opportunity for Ireland to use the offshore space more efficiently and enhance energy security.

The Netherlands provided insights into several approaches the Netherlands is taking to accelerate the multi-use of marine space. Among those are the so-called Area Passports, which dedicate areas for other uses within offshore wind farms and the use of non-price criteria in offshore wind tenders to accelerate offshore solar and green hydrogen. The speakers also presented the Dutch policy goals for offshore wind (21 GW in 2030 & 70 GW in 2050) and offshore solar (research goal of 3 GW tendered by 2031). 

Portugal displayed the pilot- and test zones for offshore renewable energy in the Portuguese MSP. In the future, areas for commercial technologies (TRL 9 required) shall also be declared. Additionally, Portugal shared their policy goals for wave energy (0.2 GW by 2030) and offshore wind (2 GW by 2030, with an ambition to increase it to 10 GW by 2030).

Several topics explored on day 1 reemerged as central  themes in the following day Local Stakeholder Event, highlighting a common need for a harmonious sea space shared by many stakeholders.

Stakeholder perspectives

The local and regional stakeholder event explored the benefits and challenges of multi-source offshore energy parks for local communities and the economy. Discussions centred on identifying the key stakeholder groups and further engaging with these stakeholders. Together, the group emphasised the importance of fact-based, inclusive dialogues and the need for clear communication of the social and economic benefits of such projects.

Throughout the day, in three sub-groups, the event openly addressed challenges such as site selection and environmental impacts, which led to a lively debate. The EU-SCORES project is specifically looking into these matters, though research has shown minimal, and even positive environmental effects. In addition, win-win scenarios, such as optimising offshore grid usage was discussed. By shifting more renewable energy production offshore, land congestion can be reduced and the efficiency of the offshore electrical grid can be enhanced. Other win-wins include  curtailment optimisation and boosting the local job market, which leads to an advance in regional economy

Implications for policymakers & local stakeholders

After two insightful days of discussion, below are the six key considerations:

The development of offshore multi-source energy parks demands strategic planning for future grid capacity, clear regulatory frameworks, and continuous research to understand ecosystem impacts and drive innovation. Addressing challenges such as optimal site selection, environmental impact management, and supply chain issues is integral for effective planning and coordination. Embracing win-win opportunities, like higher energy density and efficient space utilisation, should be integrated into maritime spatial plans to achieve renewable energy targets. The consensus shared by most was collaborative efforts and strong policy frameworks are essential to achieve ambitious offshore renewable energy targets and further innovation and investment. 
For more information about the EU-SCORES project or the Stakeholder Events, please reach out to DMEC’s Sarah Kluge.