EMEC welcomed the announcement from Ocean Energy Europe that the EU will be setting up a new Ocean Energy Forum to develop solutions to progress the development of marine renewables in Europe.
The forum will bring ministers, regional directors and industry CEOs from across Europe together to share understanding of the problems facing the industry, and collectively devise workable solutions to help move the industry towards commercialisation. The forum will also explore the synergies with other marine industries, particularly offshore wind, in matters relating to supply chains, grid connection, operations and maintenance, logistics and spatial planning.
With EMEC’s Commercial Director Oliver Wragg sitting on the Ocean Energy Europe board, and External Liaison Max Carcas contributing to the EU SET-plan Steering Group, EMEC is already engaged at an EU level, and looks forward to being involved in the Ocean Energy Forum.
Sian George, CEO of Ocean Energy Europe stated “the prize for securing global technology leadership in ocean energy is huge, but the challenges faced by the sector are significant. The Commission clearly recognises this and has moved to help the industry bridge the gap to commercialisation.
“The industry is extremely pleased with the creation of the Ocean Energy Forum and looks forward to working with the Commission and Member States to make sure it drives the sector forward. The initiative provides a platform for coordinating support and risk sharing which will ultimately provide practical support and get devices in the water.”