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OEEC 2024: A Wealth of Discussion Awaiting

In five years, 2030 renewable energy targets will be critical. Success depends on policymakers and the energy sector.
A panel session at Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference 2023 in Amsterdam

With just over five years until 2030, renewable energy targets are becoming increasingly urgent. Success or failure in reaching these targets largely hinges on the efforts of policymakers and the energy industry.

Offshore Energy Exhibition Conference 2023 in Amsterdam Photo Navingo BV

By the end of 2023, the EU increased its 2030 renewable energy target to 42.5%, encouraging a 45% aim. The US is targeting 80% renewable generation by 2030. China, still primarily reliant on fossil fuels, accelerated its renewable initiatives and achieved its 1,200 GW wind and solar target for 2030 six years early, in July 2024.

Offshore Energy

Wind energy dominates the offshore renewable sector due to its ability to generate substantial capacity away from land. Floating wind technology is advancing, providing various market opportunities, including projects aimed at decarbonizing offshore oil and gas assets.

“Floating wind turbines offer more options to solve the puzzle of achieving a fast energy transition in the coming years,” stated Axelle Viré, Professor at TU Delft. Viré will speak at the Floating Wind session during the Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference (OEEC) in Amsterdam.

Wave and tidal energy projects are growing, though at a slower pace than wind, and floating solar is emerging as an addition to offshore wind farms. The marine energy industry is increasingly active.

Renewable energy also plays a crucial role in hydrogen and clean fuel production, linking multiple industries that were once isolated. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) and decarbonization technologies further support global efforts to meet the Paris Agreement goals.

Moving Parts

Governments worldwide are developing systems to support new energy technologies and simplify permitting processes. New tender rules aim to enhance natural benefits through project design.

Efforts to accelerate offshore wind farm deployment, alongside other renewable projects, have been propelled by clean energy goals amid slow permitting processes.

The offshore wind supply chain faces challenges as projects and turbine sizes grow. The entry of floating wind, necessitating in-port maintenance, may stretch existing vessels and ports to their limits. Industry and governments are collaborating to meet national renewable objectives, particularly through cross-border port initiatives.

Working in Harmony

“Port logistics is an important part of the equation to reduce the LCOE. We will take our responsibility, and recognize that this is not possible without cross-border collaboration,” stated Tommy Sandtorv, Chief Commercial Officer at Karmsund Port Authority. Sandtorv will join the Floating Wind session at OEEC 2024.

Other session panelists include Richard den Hollander of Seaway7 and James Young of JDR Cable Systems, offering insights from offshore construction and subsea power cable perspectives.

“As we move towards a future powered by renewable energy, every offshore wind farm, substation, and cable becomes a crucial part of the larger energy puzzle,” said Saskia Jaarsma, Head of Offshore Development at TenneT. Jaarsma will also participate in the Grids & Interconnectors session.

The OEEC 2024, with its theme of Harmony, will showcase collaboration across energy sectors. Sessions will include topics like tender innovations and CCS.

“Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is vital to the UK reaching net zero by 2050. The NSTA has a significant role in realizing the UK’s CCS potential,” said Alistair Macfarlane, Manager at the North Sea Transition Authority, participating in the CCS session.

The Stage will offer insights into offshore energy developments, featuring speakers like David Molenaar, former CEO at Siemens Gamesa, and Manon van Beek, CEO at TenneT.

Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference will convene in Amsterdam at the RAI Amsterdam convention center on November 26-27, 2024, gathering offshore energy industry stakeholders.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024