Background
Results from the INTERREG-MED projects MAESTRALE and PELAGOS showed that Blue Energy (BE) is rarely considered in energy strategies at national and regional level. The lack of clear rules and procedural tools for BE deployment, together with low potentials and early technology stage, induces decision makers to avoid any intervention, often preventing private companies from investing in such technologies. Nevertheless, pilot projects developed in MAESTRALE and the PELAGOS transnational cluster demonstrate that BE initiatives can be successfully planned in MED regions.
Title: BLUE DEAL
Blue Energy Deployment Alliance
Funding program:
Interreg MED
Timeframe:
01/11/2019 – 30/06/2022
(32 Months)
2.34 milions of euro
Ecodynamics Group is lead partner (LP) of this project which includes other 12 partners from 7 countries in the MED area.
General objectives
BLUE DEAL intends to pursue a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth by supporting and promoting BE deployment.
Main challenges concern how to:
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Improve the production of renewable energy from marine sources in different MED regions;
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Promote BE development potential for a smart blue growth, also through the empowerment of public institutions and SMEs;
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Strengthen the connection and cooperation between research, innovation policy and businesses (especially SMEs) by establishing local and transnational public-private BE deployment alliances, inclusive for citizens;
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Identify opportunities and solutions for self-sufficiency of small communities, especially in islands through small scale solutions, also considering the linkage between energy independence and sustainability of seasonal tourist flows;
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Ensure environmental, social, economic sustainability through specific assessments to ensure feasibility and long-term management of BE plants.
