Economy, Energy, North Sea Cooperation
15 Years of NSEC: How the North Sea is becoming Europe’s green powerhouse
06 Nov. 2025
Today, in Ostend, the North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC) celebrates its 15th anniversary during a ministerial meeting, with Frans Weekers (Secretary General of Benelux) and Michel-Etienne Tilemans (Deputy Secretary General of Benelux) in attendance. What began as an initiative to strengthen cooperation on offshore energy has grown into a leading platform for Europe’s energy transition. Eight countries—Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Denmark, Ireland, and Norway—are joining forces to turn the North Sea and surrounding seas into a true green energy hub. Based on a Memorandum of Understanding, close cooperation also takes place with the United Kingdom.
A shared vision for offshore energy
NSEC was established in 2010 with the goal of accelerating the development of renewable energy at sea. Today, ambitions are higher than ever: together, the participating countries aim to achieve 300 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2050. This represents more than 85% of the EU’s total target and could supply millions of households with green electricity.
In addition to wind energy, options are being explored for producing hydrogen from offshore wind power. This technology enables energy storage and alternative transport methods, contributing to a stable and flexible energy system.
Concrete cooperation, tangible results
The strength of NSEC lies in cross-border collaboration. Countries align their plans, share knowledge, and work together on joint tenders and infrastructure. This accelerates project delivery and shares costs. Recently, a coordination group for offshore hydrogen was established. Work is also underway to better connect electricity grids between countries, ensuring efficient distribution of green power.
The North Sea as Europe’s testing ground
The North Sea is rich not only in wind but also in cooperation. NSEC serves as a testing ground for Europe, where innovative forms of energy production and collaboration are trialed. Lessons learned here can be applied elsewhere in Europe.
Looking ahead
With 15 years of experience and a clear vision for the future, NSEC remains a driving force behind a sustainable, interconnected, and resilient European energy system. The coming years will focus on deeper integration, technological innovation, and strengthening public-private partnerships.
The Benelux: more than just a participant
What many people don’t know is that the Benelux plays a central role in this cooperation. The Benelux Union’s General Secretariat in Brussels acts as the logistical and organizational platform for NSEC. The Benelux House is the permanent meeting venue for all working groups and coordinators, providing a neutral space for dialogue between ministers, experts, and stakeholders.
