The fishing industry has long voiced concerns about the increasing occupation of space on the NCS. Meanwhile, the offshore wind industry seeks areas to develop wind farms to meet the government's target of 30GW by 2040. Therefore, fostering good dialogue among sea users is crucial for achieving this goal.
Currently, Utsira Nord and Southern North Sea II are the only areas on the NCS designated for offshore wind development. In February 2022, the government gave the Norwegian Directorate of Water Resources and Energy (NVE) a task to identify new areas for offshore wind. By September 2023, the government requested NVE to initiate a strategic impact assessment for three additional offshore wind areas, which could be opened and announced in 2025. This assessment was submitted to the Ministry of Energy in November 2024.
Achieving coexistence at sea requires systematic efforts. The offshore wind industry is committed to facilitating constructive dialogue and meeting arenas.
Updated on March 14, 2025.