Exploring the Coexistence of Offshore Energy, Fisheries and Ecology in the Adriatic
31/08/2026
The third regional SBE Lab, organised by the Split-Dalmatia County as a project partner within the BEYOND – Blue Economy sYnergies fOr sustaiNable Development project, was held in Split and brought together representatives of the public sector, universities, businesses and civil society organisations.
The event provided an opportunity to discuss one of the key challenges for the future sustainable development of the Adriatic Sea: how offshore renewable energy can coexist with fisheries, aquaculture and the protection of marine ecosystems.
Within the BEYOND project, offshore wind energy is being explored not only as a source of renewable electricity, but as part of a broader approach to the sustainable and multi-purpose use of marine space. The project aims to build a knowledge base covering the natural, technical and regulatory conditions for offshore wind energy development in four pilot regions, including the Split-Dalmatia County.
During the SBE Lab, participants were presented with the results of analyses examining the potential interaction between offshore wind farms, fisheries and aquaculture. The assessment combined biological, spatial and economic data and highlighted the importance of carefully considering the needs and activities of different sectors when planning future offshore energy developments.
The discussion also focused on a preliminary feasibility and cost-benefit analysis for a potential offshore wind farm in the Split-Dalmatia County. The analysis explored different development scenarios and demonstrated the importance of aligning technological possibilities, economic considerations, marine spatial planning and environmental protection.
One of the key messages of the event was that the sustainable development of offshore renewable energy requires close cooperation between public authorities, researchers, businesses and civil society. Marine space is shared by many different activities and ecosystems, making integrated and responsible planning essential.
Participants also discussed the potential for offshore energy infrastructure to contribute to wider sustainability objectives. When carefully planned and managed, areas with restricted fishing activity could potentially create conditions that support marine biodiversity, while the development of renewable energy could contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
The discussions held during the third regional SBE Lab once again demonstrated the importance of dialogue and cross-sectoral cooperation in shaping the future of the Adriatic Sea.
Through the BEYOND project, partners continue to explore practical solutions and synergies that can support the development of a sustainable blue economy – one in which energy production, economic activities and environmental protection can develop together.
Take a look at the video below to discover how the event unfolde on link.