The Influence of Drivers and Barriers in a CE transition for Offshore Wind: A Comparative Case Study of the Netherlands and Denmark

Abstract

Offshore wind farms (OWFs) are low-carbon energy systems that can decarbonize the electricity grid. Significant material use and limited lifespans of OWFs pose challenges for waste and material management. This stresses the urgency for the industry to transition to a circular economy (CE). However, a CE pathway is yet to be established. The CE-related drivers and barriers provide insights for the industry’s transition. Therefore, this study aims to explore how drivers and barriers influence the CE transition within the offshore wind industry, with a particular focus on Denmark and the Netherlands. This way, the research also aimed to examine the CE performance of both countries. Semi-structured interviews with actors from the offshore wind value chain provided insights in the establishment of a CE transition. The research highlights that the institutional, market and supply chain environment can greatly influence the industry to become more circular. Circular procurement emerged as the most significant influential factor in fostering a circular offshore wind industry. It emerged that market opportunities arise, for both circular end-of-life (EOL) routes and circular design initiatives. Partnerships and knowledge exchange emerged as factors within the supply chain environment which stimulate a CE transition. The key barriers were formed by a lack of decommissioning policy, a lack of governmental expertise, CE-costs, investment insecurity, lack of standardization and a lack of downstream supply chain. Both Denmark and the Netherlands take initial steps to improve circularity throughout the value chain. While there is an emphasis on integrating CE for upcoming OWFs, circular EOL routes may be overlooked. Overall, this research presents the in-depths dynamics of drivers and barriers for a CE transition in offshore wind.