7th Meeting of the Collaborative Framework on Ocean Energy/Offshore Renewables
The Sixth Meeting of the Collaborative Framework on Ocean Energy/Offshore Renewables (CFOR) was organized on 04 May 2023 with the following objectives:
Some of the key discussion points that were highlighted by Members during the 5th CFOR meeting were:
- Presenting the briefs “Scaling up investment in Ocean Energy Technologies” (prepared with Ocean Energy Europe [OEE]) and “Enabling Frameworks for Offshore Wind Scaleup: innovation in permitting” (prepared with the Global Wind Energy Council [GWEC]).
- Discussion and exchange on the technology and standards that are being developed and implemented for floating offshore wind projects globally.
Some of the key discussion points that were highlighted in the 6th CFOR meeting were as follows:
- To reap all the benefits from ocean energy, it is necessary that investments in this technology must be scaled up. There are high risk factors associated with ocean energy technologies and clear signals from governments will be required to provide a visible future to green investors. The published ‘scaling up investment brief’ provides a concise guide to decision makers on how different financial instruments can be leveraged to draw investments to ocean energy technologies (wave and tidal).
- The CFOR Members appreciated the inclusion of their feedback in the updated version of the brief presented. They also noted the timely and forthcoming launch of the ‘offshore wind permitting’ brief given the increasing interest in the energy community for this technology.
- It was noted that due to the large depths at which floating offshore wind can be deployed, there is a great energy potential to tap into due to the higher wind capacity factors available as well as lower spatial constraints. Developments in key foundation technologies (semi-submersible, tension leg platforms, and SPAR) as well as circularity solutions are innovation drivers in this space.
- A panel of offshore wind experts noted that for countries to explore floating offshore wind it is extremely necessary to set tangible infrastructure goals, which must be reflected in policies and roadmaps. Investing in making supply chains (especially local ones) more robust; upgrading port infrastructure; and undertaking detailed environmental assessments are other requisites to ensure this technology can be integrated with energy ecosystems.
Based on the feedback received from Members, the objectives of the 7th CFOR Meeting were as follows:
- Presenting an overview on the ongoing analysis IRENA has undertaken for floating offshore wind at the request of Japan under their G7 presidency.
- Provide a short preview of an upcoming report IRENA is undertaking together with Ocean Energy Europe to estimate the global resource potential for ocean energy.
- To have a panel discussion on the different institutional settings and mechanisms that can be leveraged by governments to reinforce their offshore wind strategies and action agendas.
Meeting participation by invitation only.
For more information, please contact CFoffshore@irena.org.