Results of the third SWiM workshop

As offshore space becomes increasingly crowded, a key question emerges: how can we use the North Sea more efficiently while balancing energy production, food systems, ecosystem restoration, and maritime security?

These questions were at the heart of the third SWiM workshop, Towards a Future-Proof North Sea. Building on earlier discussions about offshore wind and floating solar, participants explored how offshore infrastructure can evolve from single-purpose energy sites into multifunctional platforms that create broader societal value.

The workshop took place on 3 March 2026 in Brussels and brought together stakeholders from industry, research and policy to discuss the future of multi-use offshore systems in the Belgian North Sea.

Results

23/07/2026

From single-use to multi-use

A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the shift from efficiency towards system robustness. While offshore wind remains the backbone of the energy transition, participants agreed that future offshore developments should be designed from the outset to accommodate multiple functions. Multi-use is no longer seen as simply sharing space, but as creating synergies between energy production, biodiversity enhancement, food production, and security services.

The workshop highlighted that low-risk, nature-based solutions currently offer the most realistic starting point for multi-use in offshore wind farms. Nature restoration measures such as artificial reefs and habitat enhancement can support biodiversity while complementing existing offshore infrastructure. Similarly, low-impact aquaculture systems may contribute to food production, provided they are integrated into wind farm design from an early stage.

Designing for the future

Participants also emphasized the growing importance of protecting critical maritime infrastructure. Offshore energy assets can play a wider role in maritime surveillance and situational awareness through integrated monitoring technologies, contributing to a safer and more resilient North Sea.

Across all discussions, one message stood out clearly: successful multi-use requires co-design rather than retrofitting. Energy, nature, food production and security should be considered together from the planning phase onwards. Achieving this vision will require collaboration across sectors, supportive regulatory frameworks and continued experimentation through pilot projects.

Conclusions

Today, participants broadly agree that the future of the Belgian North Sea lies in gradually moving from single-use energy infrastructure towards integrated multi-use systems. Starting with low-risk pilot projects while developing a long-term vision for multifunctional offshore spaces appears to be the most promising pathway towards a more resilient, sustainable, and future-proof North Sea.
BIG THANKS to all speakers, experts and participants who contributed to the discussions and shared their insights throughout the workshop.

Full report

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