Nato and the European Commission are also taking part in the summit, which is expected to include pledges to strengthen security for offshore energy infrastructure amid rising concerns over sabotage and unsafe maritime activity.
The agreement underlines Europe’s continued commitment to wind power, despite renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump, who again attacked what he called “windmills” during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The North Sea countries pledged to develop 300 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity three years ago., external This new deal means 100GW of the total will be built jointly. It is expected to say 20GW of that should be under way by 2030.
China currently leads the world in offshore wind, with 43GW of the world’s 83GW of installed capacity, according to a report last year from industry body RenewableUK.
The UK ranks second, with almost 16GW already in operation. The UK government has awarded contracts for a further 20GW, including 8.4GW agreed in a record-breaking bidding round earlier this month.
The government was criticised by the Conservatives for “locking in” high offshore wind prices.
Reform has also repeatedly attacked the cost of net zero, but the Lib Dems and Greens both support the expansion of renewables to tackle the threat of climate change and boost green jobs.
SNP and Plaid Cymru also support the growth of offshore wind, but argue Scotland and Wales should have control of their energy resources.
Additional reporting by Miho Tanaka.
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