The energy transition needs to be environmentally and socially viable. Renewables must be deployed without displacing vital societal interests, and in balance with nature, through active measures to develop biodiversity. These ambitions are integral to the Nordic vision of becoming the most integrated and sustainable region in the world.

The North and Baltic Seas are instrumental to increasing Europe’s offshore wind capacity, to reach climate neutrality by 2050. This creates challenges and opportunities for marine spatial planning. Successful coexistence is key to solving the energy and nature crises – governments must act to ensure this.

Based on workshops with a range of stakeholders, this report recommends instruments to facilitate co-existence and nature inclusive design in Nordic offshore wind farms, to assist regulators in issuing requirements for licensing and choice of locations.