Co-location of offshore wind, aquaculture, commercial fishing

Speakers: Jonas Bjärnstedt, Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management & Kari Grundvig, Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries

Jonas Bjärnstedt, from the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, delved into the complexities of marine spatial planning with a focus on planning for potential coexistence of offshore wind power with commercial fishing, aquaculture, and nature conservation in Sweden.

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A central theme of his presentation was the concept of "co-location," which he described as the fundamental starting point for the marine spatial planning process.

Bjärnstedt emphasized that while co-location is a guiding principle, it presents unique challenges. He highlighted that "pelagic fishing is not possible to co-locate with offshore wind," due to the nature of both activities. This incompatibility, coupled with increased economic risks and a lack of affordable insurance options, underscores the need for careful planning and management.

Sweden's current "open door system" for offshore wind was identified as a significant hurdle to effective coordination. Bjärnstedt explained that this system, a system abandoned by neighbouring countries, creates a complex regulatory environment that hinders the development of clear guidelines for coexistence. He called for a more structured approach, suggesting the development of a "national guide" that would provide regional and local guidance on how to balance competing interests.

Bjärnstedt also discussed the challenges of coexisting with the fishing industry, noting that outdated knowledge, economic uncertainties, and navigational risks pose significant obstacles. He emphasized the need for quantitative analysis of these risks and for insurance solutions that cover both the fishing and wind energy sectors.

Regarding aquaculture, Bjärnstedt highlighted the potential for coexistence but emphasized the need for addressing technical, operational, and safety challenges. He pointed to the Netherlands as a country that has made progress in this area and suggested that Sweden could learn from their experiences.

In conclusion, Bjärnstedt stressed the importance of dialogue, regulation, and a more holistic approach to marine management. He emphasized the need for a national guide that provides clear guidelines for co-location, and he called for increased collaboration between all stakeholders.

Key takeaways:

Bjärnstedt emphasized the need for quantitative analysis of risks and insurance solutions for both fishing and wind energy sectors.
There is potential for coexistence between offshore wind and aquaculture, with significant challenges to overcome.
A more holistic approach to marine management is necessary, involving all stakeholders.
A national guide providing clear guidelines for co-location is crucial.

Kari Grundvig, Senior Adviser at the Directorate of Fisheries in Norway, discussed the balance between offshore wind development and sustainable management of marine resources. She emphasized the need for careful planning to protect fishing interests while advancing renewable energy initiatives. The Directorate of Fisheries promotes profitable economic activity while ensuring sustainable management of marine resources.

With Norway's population of 5.3 million and extensive coastlines, the seafood industry is vital to its economy, significantly contributing to exports. Offshore wind development is viewed positively by the fisheries sector but requires careful consideration to avoid conflicts with commercial fishing areas. The Norwegian view is that no kind of fishing is possible in offshore wind farms due to the structure of the Norwegian fleet and the type of gear used. Grundvig emphasized that a safety zone between fishing activity and offshore windfarms is difficult to set due to the ever-shifting conditions at sea. Questions about stakeholder involvement and their perceptions of safety aspects have been investigated, and it was noted that transition corridors are needed. There is also consideration of establishing attention zones for a pragmatic approach, and it is essential to have fishing space areas at certain distances from offshore areas, which need regulation.

A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is underway to evaluate potential offshore wind sites, focusing on their impact on fisheries and marine biodiversity. Key issues include the displacement of fishing grounds, safe distances from turbines, and compensation for loss of catch.

Open ocean aquaculture is also being explored as a viable option outside traditional production areas, with regulatory frameworks established since 2017. The timeline for open ocean aquaculture includes assessments leading up to expected license allocations in 2025. In Norway aquaculture dominates in relation to the fisheries industry and Norwegian aquaculture is the second-largest in the world after China. Co-existence with many different interests is critical. Both open ocean aquaculture and co-location are new areas to develop. Questions about the impact on the ecosystem of open ocean aquaculture have been raised, and it was noted that there is no experience yet, but research is ongoing.

Key takeaways:

Grundvig highlighted the importance of balancing offshore wind development with sustainable management of marine resources.
Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) are underway to evaluate potential offshore wind sites in Norway.
There are different views regarding the feasibility of fishing within offshore wind farms, which may be related to differences in fleet structures etc.
Stakeholder involvement and perceptions of safety aspects are critical in planning.
Marine plans and legal frameworks are essential for establishing prerequisites for multiuse and co-existence.