The UK has signed an agreement with the EU and North Seas countries on developing renewable energy. UK Minister for Energy and Climate Graham Stuart (pictured) signed the landmark agreement between the UK and the North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC) setting the framework for greater cooperation with North Seas neighbours and it is expected to boost the UK’s targets to increase offshore wind fivefold to 50GW by 2030.

The Memorandum of Understanding allows the UK to work with NSEC members to develop renewables projects in the North Seas - specifically projects linking electricity interconnectors and windfarms. The countries involved include Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and the European Commission.

The UK currently sends and receives electricity through cables that link us with neighbours like France, Belgium and the Netherlands. The agreement bolsters the mission to facilitate further interconnection. Analysis by National Grid Electricity System Operator shows that a well-integrated grid linked to offshore wind farms can deliver savings to consumers of up to around £3bn.

The former Prime Minister Liz Truss set the ground for the MoU at the European Political Community summit in Prague in October, setting out the strong case for close cooperation with the UK’s European neighbours on energy security and boosting renewables.

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