Legislation on offshore renewable energy production – consultation paper sent on public hearing

The Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Mr. Terje Riis-Johansen forwarded 13 February a consultation paper which outline a new act on offshore renewable energy. The consultation paper is sent on public hearing. Comments are due 17 April 2009.

“Developing offshore renewable energy represents long term opportunities for Norway. The energy potential in the Norwegian maritime zone is enormous, and Norwegian enterprises have a good basis to take part in the development of these energy resources. Further, our hydro power plants are suited to balance the fluctuating wind power production. This proposal will contribute to future development of new green industry,” the Minister says.

The proposal ensures public control with the development of the renewable energy resources in the Norwegian maritime zone.

The proposal lays down the principle that development of renewable energy only can take place within specific zones defined by the Norwegian Government. A governmental decision on opening of zones for development of renewable energy has to be based on foregoing impact analysis. This process will ensure a coordinated development of renewable energy plants and electricity infrastructure offshore and onshore, in addition  to issues concerning the environment, fishery, ship traffic etc are identified and evaluated at an early stage. The proposal also regulates the subsequent licensing procedure, as well as the constructing, running and close-down of energy plants and infrastructure.

The consultation paper proposes to establish a compensation system for Norwegian fishermen similar to the system which applies to the petroleum sector. Moreover, the consultation paper includes regulations regarding security and working environment, area tax, electricity system operation, export and import of electricity etc.

“A future large scale development of offshore renewable energy brings along several challenges. The law proposal is an important part of the government’s long term policy in this field. The proposal ensures that energy supply, environment, security, fishery, ship traffic and other interests are taken care of in the planning and development of renewable energy offshore,” says Mr. Riis-Johansen.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy is preparing a National Strategy on Offshore Renewable Energy, which e.g. includes research and development and strategic area planning. According to plans, the law proposal and the strategy will be submitted to the Norwegian Parliament before the summer this year.