Ocean Energy: The European Commission Backs a Strategic Technology to Reach Climate Goals

The European Commission has taken a significant step by naming ocean energy as one of the key technologies to accelerate the continent’s energy transition. In a guidance document published on July 2nd, the Commission calls on Member States to ensure that at least 5% of newly installed renewable capacity by 2030 comes from innovative technologies — a requirement set out in the updated Renewable Energy Directive.

Among these emerging solutions, energy generated from waves, tides, and differences in sea temperature and salinity now takes a leading role. It’s a strong signal for a sector where Europe is already a global leader in research, development, and early deployment.

A Complementary Solution to Wind and Solar

Unlike more established renewable sources, which can be intermittent, ocean energy offers a predictable, steady, and seasonally balanced output. For example, wave energy continues to generate even after the wind dies down, and its intensity increases in winter — just when energy demand is higher and solar production is lower. Tidal energy is entirely predictable, making it a valuable asset for grid stability.

A New Industry to Build — Made in Europe

The EU estimates that ocean energy could supply up to 10% of Europe’s current electricity demand by 2050. This would mean 100 GW of installed capacity, hundreds of thousands of jobs, and a 100% European industrial sector with export potential worldwide. It’s a strategic project for both energy sovereignty and industrial competitiveness.

Targeted Support Mechanisms to Scale Up

To turn this potential into a real industry, the Commission recommends that Member States implement ring-fenced revenue support mechanisms, such as Contracts for Difference (CfDs) or feed-in tariffs. These tools have already proven successful in bringing wind and solar to market scale.

The United Kingdom is already leading by example, having awarded over 120 MW of tidal capacity through several dedicated CfD auctions. For countries with strong wave energy resources — like Ireland, Portugal, France, and Spain — this is an opportunity not to be missed.

A Timeline That Matches Industry Readiness

According to Ocean Energy Europe, the sector’s main industry association, the 2030 timeline aligns well with the project pipeline already in development. The next five years offer a unique window to build a new European industry and strengthen the EU’s energy independence.

Ocean energy, long left on the sidelines of Europe’s energy strategies, is now officially recognized by the Commission as a strategic priority. With a clear call to Member States, Brussels is encouraging targeted support to help the technology scale. Europe holds a global lead — now it’s time to act and keep it.