Good practices
Good practices

Press release

Experts discuss environmental impacts of offshore grid infrastructure at workshop in Brussels

Press release

Topic

Offshore Energy & Nature

Dimension

Energy & Nature

Published 09 December 2015

On 9 December, 35 experts joined the RGI expert workshop “Offshore grid infrastructure: understanding cumulative impacts & exploring multi-functionality and environmental monitoring” in Brussels, including grid operators, environmental NGOs, cable manufacturers and decision-makers.

Presentations were held on the current status quo of grid infrastructure deployment, on the forthcoming guidance document of the European Commission on energy infrastructure and Natura2000, and on environmental impacts of offshore grids. Moreover, three case studies on the COBRAcable, NORD.Link and the Sicily-Malta interconnector were introduced by TenneT and Terna.

During discussions, participants agreed that there are still many knowledge gaps regarding the environmental impacts of grids, including the effects of electric and magnetic fields and heat dissipation on species and the seabed. Moreover, it was acknowledged that concise information about different cable laying techniques and the availability of data would be useful.

Next steps
RGI has commissioned the company NIRAS Consulting to undertake a review on the impacts of subsea cables on the marine environment, key environmental information needed for offshore grid development and environmental protection, and possible knowledge gaps. The report also includes expert testimonials. Results will be published soon.

contact

Stephanie Bätjer

Director – Communication

Stephanie Bätjer

Director – Communication

t: +49 30 2332 11017
Stephanie Bätjer is leading the Renewables Grid Initiative’s communication and event activities as Programme Manager – Communication. She is also heavily involved in RGI’s policy work and all activities that look at social engagement around grids. She previously worked in the communications team of the European Climate Foundation. Stephanie has studied at the Universities of Marburg and Hamburg, Germany, and the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. She holds degrees in political science and journalism.

Stephanie Bätjer

Director – Communication

Stephanie Bätjer

Director – Communication

t: +49 30 2332 11017
Stephanie Bätjer is leading the Renewables Grid Initiative’s communication and event activities as Programme Manager – Communication. She is also heavily involved in RGI’s policy work and all activities that look at social engagement around grids. She previously worked in the communications team of the European Climate Foundation. Stephanie has studied at the Universities of Marburg and Hamburg, Germany, and the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. She holds degrees in political science and journalism.