GDF SUEZ, Scottish Development International, ScottishPower Renewables & Siemens join Ocean Energy Europe as lead sponsors

Four of the ocean energy sectors biggest players have lent their strength to Ocean Energy Europe by joining as lead sponsors. GDF SUEZ, Scottish Development International (SDI), ScottishPower Renewables & Siemens’ support confirms the Association’s mandate as the European representative of the sector and recognises the role the EU will have in bridging the gap to commercialisation.

The announcement comes at a time of unprecedented interest in ocean energy within the EU, following the launch of the European Commission’s Communication on Ocean Energy on 20th January and before the kick-off of the Ocean Energy Forum on 4th April.

“We are delighted to have such major industrialists and development agencies join Ocean Energy Europe; it is clearly indicative of the momentum the sector continues to gain. Commercialising ocean energy will require EU support and industry cooperation and today’s announcement shows that the industry has recognised that.” Dr Sian George, CEO of Ocean Energy Europe, the trade association for ocean renewables.

“Following the development of our tidal projects in France and our commitment to contribute to the marine industry, it seems natural for us to join Ocean Energy Europe to promote innovation and further improve ocean technologies and their sustainable, efficient deployment across Europe.” Marc Florette, Member of the Executive Committee of GDF SUEZ, Research & Innovation Director.

“Ocean energy has an important role to play in Scotland's future energy mix, and with a quarter of Europe’s potential tidal energy resource and 10% of its potential wave resource, Scotland has a key role in the development of the industry in Europe. We believe that it is important for the development of the ocean energy industry in Europe that it speaks with one coherent voice and Ocean Energy Europe is the ideal platform for us to do that. By supporting Ocean Energy Europe we aim to keep Scotland and Europe at the forefront of ocean energy development." Sharon Hamilton, Renewable Energy International Sector Head at Scottish Development International.

“We are pleased to be working with Ocean Energy Europe, and joining with the industry to promote the development of ocean renewable energy all across Europe. There is tremendous potential to deliver clean, green electricity from ocean renewables, and it is important that the industry works together to help achieve this goal.” Lindsay McQuade, Director of Policy & Innovation at ScottishPower Renewables.

“Siemens is assuming a leading role in Ocean Energy Europe to support a consolidated and focused dialogue at European level. We want to make ocean energy a reality in Europe not only to produce predictable, reliable clean energy, but also for job creation and to support innovation.” Kai Koelmel, Head of Sales and Product Management for the Siemens Hydro and Ocean Business