The task focuses first on an initial review of the current political and regulatory frameworks on a set of countries to consolidate up to date information and set the basis for the identification of the main challenges faced by the sector. A critical analysis of the main barriers and enablers was carried out, supported by a questionnaire conducted to regulators, technology developers and test site managers. Based on the literature review and respondents’ perceptions, several challenges and enabling features were identified within the national and international policies and the consenting procedures namely regarding the existent legislation, environmental impact assessment and monitoring, guidance, marine spatial planning, stakeholder consultation and entities involved in the process.

Partners of the project: Tecnalia, The University of Edinburgh, Energy Systems Catapult, Wave Energy Scotland, France Energies Marines, WavEC Offshore Renewables, Aalborg University, EDF, Enel Green Power, Naval Energies, Bureau Veritas, IDOM, Nova Innovation, CorPower Ocean, Open Cascade, EDP, Orbital Marine Power, Sabella.

Funding: This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement n° 785921.