– Elia Group and Ørsted launched a joint paper to promote the development of hybrid projects linking multiple countries.
– The paper aims to help Europe maximize its renewable energy potential from its seas and ensure fair distribution of clean power among nations.
– Recommendations in the paper include regional planning at sea basin level, the establishment of regional Offshore Investment Banks, and a review of the framework for hybrid interconnectors.
Elia Group and Ørsted have collaborated to release a paper aimed at addressing barriers hindering the development of offshore hybrid projects connecting multiple European countries. The goal is to fully utilize the renewable energy potential of Europe’s seas and ensure fair distribution of clean power among nations. Key figures, including ministers and officials, attended the launch event.
Despite the significance of offshore hybrids in Europe’s green transition, only one project, the Kriegers Flak – Combined Grid Solution, has been completed to date due to regulatory challenges. The current framework supports either generators or interconnectors, not both simultaneously, limiting the progress of hybrid projects. Planning strategies often prioritize national interests over cross-border solutions.
The paper recommends regional planning at sea basin level, regional investment banks, and a review of the framework for hybrid interconnectors to ensure fair sharing of risks and benefits among stakeholders. Elia Group and Ørsted highlight the importance of encouraging hybrid projects for a faster learning curve in commercial, technical, and regulatory aspects, as well as accelerated timelines.