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Results of the fourth SWiM workshop

As the demand for offshore renewable energy continues to grow, interest is increasing in technologies that can maximise energy production without requiring additional space at sea. Offshore floating photovoltaics (OFPV) are emerging as one of the most promising options to complement offshore wind in the North Sea.

The final SWiM workshop explored the opportunities, challenges and conditions for developing offshore solar energy in the Belgian North Sea. Building on previous discussions around offshore wind and multi-use concepts, participants examined how floating solar could be integrated into future offshore energy systems. 

The workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, developers, technology providers and environmental experts to assess the technical potential of OFPV, identify remaining knowledge gaps and discuss the regulatory and governance frameworks needed to support future deployment.
12/10/2026

Significant potential for offshore solar

A technical potential assessment presented during the workshop shows that, under ambitious deployment scenarios, OFPV could generate up to 6.6 TWh of electricity annually. This corresponds to approximately 5.5-7.6% of Belgium’s electricity consumption and could increase future offshore renewable energy production by 20-28% on top of the planned offshore wind fleet.
Participants also highlighted the advantages of combining offshore wind and solar within the same areas. Sharing grid connections, cables and other offshore infrastructure could improve efficiency while making better use of the available space in the Belgian North Sea.

From pilot projects to large-scale deployment

Discussions concluded that there are currently no fundamental technical or environmental barriers to pilot installations. At the same time, several uncertainties remain. Long-term performance in harsh offshore conditions, the reliability of floating structures and electrical systems, economic viability, and potential ecological impacts all require further investigation.
As a result, participants broadly agreed on the need for grid-connected demonstration projects accompanied by robust environmental monitoring. Such projects can help generate practical experience while reducing uncertainties for future commercial deployment.

Building an integrated offshore energy system

One message resonated throughout the workshop: offshore solar should be developed as part of an integrated offshore energy system rather than as a standalone technology. Combining renewable technologies within the same offshore areas offers opportunities to optimise infrastructure, increase energy yields and support a more resilient energy system.
Realising this vision will require adaptive regulatory frameworks for hybrid projects, coordinated spatial planning, clear arrangements for shared infrastructure, and continued collaboration between policymakers, researchers and industry.

Conclusions

The workshop confirmed that offshore floating photovoltaics have the potential to become a valuable addition to Belgium’s offshore energy mix. While important technical, economic and environmental questions remain, participants agreed that a step-by-step, evidence-based approach offers the most promising pathway forward. 


Demonstration projects, continued research and supportive policy development will be essential to unlock the potential of offshore solar energy and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient use of space in the North Sea.



Full report

Curious to dive deeper into the workshop’s insights? A comprehensive report of the workshop is now available.