UK perspective research landscape for offshore renewable energy and its role in delivering Net Zero

Abstract

This paper sets out the role of offshore renewable energy (ORE) in UK targets for Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and provides a review of the research challenges that face the sector as it grows to meet these targets. The research challenges are set out in a Research Landscape that was established by the ORE Supergen Hub following extensive consultation with the ORE community. The challenges are divided into eight themes, each challenge is described, and current progress is summarised. The progress of the ORE sector in recent years has seen huge cost reductions, which have encouraged the great ambition for the sector seen in UK Government targets. However, in order to meet these critical targets and achieve net zero, further innovations and novel technologies will be needed and at pace, driven forward by new research and innovation. The strategy of the Supergen ORE Hub in framing the research and innovation activities within a community-developed research landscape and working together across disciplines and with close collaboration between academia and industry is a necessary component in achieving the ambition of sustainable energy generation.