One North Sea: cross-border collaboration in the North Sea energy transition

The Paris Agreement and other national climate agreements require quick actions and open opportunities in the search for smart synergies between existing and new energy systems. Having a strong offshore oil and gas sector and large ambitions in offshore renewables in several North Sea countries, there is a huge potential for creating value from these synergies. Several integration options between the oil & gas sector and the renewables sector, such as platform electrification, CO2 storage and hydrogen production, are currently being investigated in various North Sea countries. This is a relatively new field, requiring strong leadership in both research and industry to fully utilise the existing window of opportunity. The North Sea energy system does not stop at borders. International collaboration on the nexus of oil & gas and renewables can bring forth optimal synergies, as well as opportunities to share experiences and knowledge that can accelerate the energy transition. Cross-border partnerships, alignment and joint planning in the North Sea region are key to make the energy transition a success. With this in mind, TNO and Net Zero Technology Centre have set up One North Sea – a platform that focusses on stimulating international collaboration by bringing together the ideas and initiatives of research organizations, industry and governments. We are looking to extend this partnership to include likeminded organisations and maximise the opportunities for a successful transition in the North Sea. Ways to contribute to this platform include: This document describes the outcomes of a first joint study under the One North Sea flag. Chapter 2 focusses on the current status of the North Sea energy transition, and more specifically within the nexus of oil & gas and renewables in the North Sea. Chapter 3 describes our joint international vision of the North Sea energy transition, highlighting cross-border opportunities and challenges. Finally, Chapter 4 summarizes a set of recommendations to accelerate international collaboration.