In the declaration, the energy ministers also agreed to step up cooperation on offshore renewable hydrogen, and support its production, transport and storage at sea where it is cost-effective and adds value to the energy system.
“Cooperation projects will support the integration of vast amounts of renewable electricity across the North Seas Region, improve security of supply, and can lower consumer prices across Europe. Some projects may be linked to offshore hydrogen production for better utilisation. Offshore renewable and low-carbon hydrogen could help to reduce reliance on fossil energy imports from other regions and strengthen energy security” , the Hamburg Declaration reads.
The ministers also committed to faster permitting, stronger protection of offshore energy infrastructure, and support for the supply chain and workforce.
On accelerating permitting, the ministers agreed that the nine countries will explore the potential to advance offshore projects through coordinated planning and permitting, including cooperation on environmental impact assessments.
“The participating EU Member States acknowledge the European Grids Package ’s measures to simplify and accelerate permitting procedures for all grid infrastructure, renewable energy projects, storage projects and recharging stations while ensuring public acceptance and benefit-sharing” , the energy ministers state in the declaration.
For the UK, the declaration says the country is committed to reforming its planning system to accelerate the transition to clean power by 2030.