The Sea Could Cover Half of European Energy Needs by 2050

Renewable marine sources could contribute to covering an estimated 50 percent of all energy needs in Europe by no later than 2050, provided that action to support such a scenario is taken now.

A new report on the issue was presented at the EurOCEAN 2010 conference, by researchers at the Marine Board of the European Science Foundation (ESF).

Scientists say that there are numerous methods that could be employed in doing so, given that oceans, seas and lakes house a multitude of systems that exchange energy which could be harnessed.

Offshore wind turbines are the first example to come to mind, but using the power of waves, tides and oceanic currents for producing electricity could also yield significant amounts of energy.

Additionally, the salinity and temperature gradients of the water could also be exploited, such as for example inside osmotic power plants, AlphaGalileo reports.

Another way to make good use of bodies of water is to grow algae in controlled environments, and then use them for biofuel production. Leaving algal growth unchecked can destroy ecosystems though.

Using these approaches could have added advantages, including reducing European reliance on foreign natural resources such as gas and oil, increasing energy security, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions responsible for global warming.

“Marine renewable energy is in its infancy, but it has remarkable potential so the target of 50% is ambitious, but achievable – we just need research, industry and policy to come together,” explains expert Lars Horn.

“As well as cutting carbon dioxide emissions and their impact on the environment, investing in marine renewable energy would create jobs in an innovative sector,” says Horn, who is the chair of the ESF Marine Board. 

The expert also holds an appointment with the Research Council of Norway. He adds that supporting research and fostering innovation in this field should be a top priority for European governments.

Their action should be doubled by appropriate environmental monitoring protocols, for the maximum possible effect,, especially on global warming and climate change.

One point that Horn was keen on making was that Europe absolutely needs an offshore energy grid, fueled by wind farms.

The new document was elaborated by the ESF Marine Board European in cooperation with the European Ocean Energy Association.