In 2017, the synthesis paper "Climate Gains in the North Sea" summarized findings from the North Sea Energy programme, primarily focused on assessing the benefits of platform electrification and optimizing electrification scenarios.
The 2018 North Sea Energy program explored scenarios combining different offshore system integration options, focusing on platform electrification with Power-to-hydrogen and CO₂ transport & storage. At three locations in the Dutch North Sea, researchers assessed the technical, economic, ecological, and regulatory challenges and benefits of system integration. The findings are summarized in the synthesis document: "Hybrid Offshore Energy Transition Options - The Merits and Challenges of Combining Offshore System Integration Options."
In addtion, in 2018, three reports were published focusing on special topics: (1) Regulatory framework (2) Offshore infrastructure (3) Environmental impact.
In 2019/2020, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs under the Topsector Energy programme, the research results were brought together in the synthesis paper: Unlocking potential of the North Sea.
The Key Topics in 2019/2020 from the research covered: Hydrogen Potential & Offshore Integration, Energy System Integration, Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS), and Offshore Infrastructure & Safety. These were covered in 6 additional reports.
In 2021, as in between results, we published a report on stakeholder perceptions. As a partner in the program, MSG Sustainable Strategies performed an extensive analysis of Dutch stakeholders’ views, concerns, needs and potential benefits related to North Sea system integration and specific integration options, such as reuse, CCS and hydrogen in particular.
In 2022 the programme results focussed on an integrated vision and the roadmap to unlock the North Sea’s climate-neutral energy potential while optimising its value for society and nature.
To provide policymakers, project developers and society clarity and certainty about the pathways leading there, the North Sea Energy Roadmap was developed.
To enhance actions in the short term, the Action Agenda for all North Sea stakeholders was developed.
The reports provide information on the current role and future potential of energy supply, transportation, demand, conversion, and storage in the North Sea.
In 2023-2025 we explored innovative concepts for offshore energy production, conversion, transport and storage with three virtual offshore energy hubs and clusters as a starting point. The key role of the North Sea towards an independent and affordable energy system, was brought together in a unique visualisation and modelling of energy plans. The unique series of maps and scenarios show just how crucial offshore wind, hydrogen production, CO₂ storage, and the phase-out of natural gas are for the future of the Netherlands and Europe.
A series of 15 reports and 6 white papers offer insight and call for action from the Netherlands and other North Sea countries.
A set of 2 Roadmap papers outline exploratory pathways towards empowering and decarbonizing Europe and The Netherlands, as a compass for North Sea energy system integration.
Work package 4 organised three workshops on nature inclusive design. The reports provide a record of the topics discussed.