Explore the Dynamic Landscape of Baltic Wind Energy: Join us at WINDMission BSR 2024 as we navigate the diverse strategies and initiatives of Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Finland, and Sweden harnessing wind power.

Uncover the distinctive trajectories of each nation, from Estonia and Latvia collaborating on the ELWIND project for a 1 GW offshore wind farm to Lithuania’s ambitious plans outlined in its National Energy and Climate Action Plan. Additionally, take note of Poland’s substantial shift towards offshore wind, as evidenced by its inaugural Offshore Wind Sector Deal, which presents lucrative opportunities for foreign investments. Dive into the challenges, opportunities, and collaborative efforts shaping the future of wind energy in the Baltic region.

Original Sokos Hotel Viru ♥ Sokos Hotels
AS Sokotel, Viru väljak 4, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia

Sponsors confirmed: Ignitis Renewables, Sorainen, PRO WIND Service, Megajoule
Exhibitors confirmed: Wind Audit

AGENDA

DAY 1: 18 January 2024

08:00 Registration desk opens, coffee
09:00 – 09:05 Conference opening
Keynote address
Mr Giles Dickson, Chief Executive Officer, WindEurope

Panel I: Empowering Wind Energy in the BSR: Policy, Cooperation, and Economic Growth
The panel uncovers the key drivers of wind energy development in the Baltic Sea Region emphasising the paramount importance of energy security. We’ll first explore the transformative potential of regional cooperation frameworks, the Baltic Energy Market Interconnection Plan (BEMIP) and the Baltic Sea Region Energy Cooperation (BASREC), in fostering cross-border collaboration and supercharging the wind energy sector.

Next, we’ll dissect the essential policies and regulations that shape wind energy in BSR countries, from government incentives and feed-in tariffs to permitting processes and environmental impact assessments. But we won’t stop there; we’ll tackle the pressing issue of harmonizing regulatory frameworks across BSR countries, discussing how regional initiatives and EU support can pave the way for aligned policies, streamlined permitting processes, and an attractive investment climate for wind energy development.In addition to policy, we’ll assess the tangible economic benefits of wind energy in BSR countries. From job creation to the development of local supply chains and the potential for export opportunities, we’ll examine how wind energy can not only power our future but also power the regional economy.

Moderator: Mr Ivo Krustok, Senior Expert – Climate and Energy Programme, Stockholm Environment Institute

Speakers:
Mr Giles Dickson, Chief Executive Officer, WindEurope
Ms Marju Kõrts, Subject Matter Expert, NATO Energy Security Centre of Excellence
Mr Jānis Ločmelis, Head of ELWIND Project Division, Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA)
Mr Erik M. Dugstad, SVP Market Analysis and Public Affairs, Board Member, Vårgrønn

Networking break

Panel II: Integrating Wind Into Existing Energy Grid

We kick off by addressing the challenges and opportunities of integrating wind energy into existing power grids, covering transmission infrastructure, grid stability, and innovative energy storage solutions.

Next, we explore interconnection and grid integration, emphasizing the importance of linking the power grids of BSR countries. Our discussion touches on the pivotal role of grid infrastructure development, the harmonization of technical standards, and the expansion of cross-border transmission capacity, all of which are key to unlocking the true potential of wind energy.

Speakers:
Mr Priit Heinla, Offshore Grid Development Manager, Elering
Ms Anu Eslas, Head of International Business Development, Ignitis Renewables
Networking break

Panel III: Offshore Wind Energy Tenders in BSR countries

Our panel, featuring representatives from regulatory bodies, industry experts, and environmental analysts, will explore the evolving landscape of offshore wind tenders in the Baltic Sea region. Delve into the nuances of tenders announced, discussing challenges and opportunities in the region’s offshore wind market, set to commission 6-8 GW in the near future projects valued at over EUR 20bn.

Discover the timing of upcoming tenders, anticipated participants, and the transparency of policies and rules for local and international involvement. Our expert panel is ready to provide valuable insights and clarity on these pivotal aspects, shedding light on the path forward for sustainable energy initiatives in the Baltic Sea region.

Moderator: Ms Gerda Grauberg, Associate, TGS Baltic

Speakers:
Ms Kristi Talving, Director General, Republic of Estonia Consumer Protection and
Technical Regulatory Authority
Mr Mattia Cecchinato, Senior Advisor – Offshore Wind, WindEurope

Networking lunch

Presentation (20 minutes incl Q&A): Economics of wind in the Baltic Sea Region. Mr Alexander Esser, Head of Baltics and Nordics, Aurora Energy Research

Panel IV: Unlocking Wind Energy Finance: EU and Regional Support in the BSR Join us in this insightful panel discussion where we delve into the crucial realm of funding and financial mechanisms in wind energy. We will explore the robust support provided by the European Union and regional initiatives, designed to fuel cross-border collaboration and advance wind energy projects.

Our expert panelists will shine a light on the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), outlining the ways in which these programs empower the wind energy sector. We will discuss the application processes, eligibility criteria, and the strategic importance of these financial mechanisms in bolstering sustainability and innovation within the BSR’s wind energy landscape. Discover how these funding opportunities can accelerate your wind energy projects, foster cooperation, and pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future.

Speakers:
Mr Nikon Vidjajev, Counsellor of Offshore Wind, Estonian Ministry of Climate, Energy department
Mr Kai Rintala, Managing Director, Taaleri Energia
Ms Lisa McDermott, Executive Director Renewable Project Financing EMEA, ABN Amro
Mr Christoffer Adrian, Director, Investment Banking Division, DNB Markets

End of the Day 1
19:00 Networking dinner (requires separate registration)

DAY 2: 19 January 2024
08:30 Registration desk opens, coffee
09:00 – 09:05 Conference opening

Keynote address
Panel I: Hybrid Renewable Energy Projects in the BSR: Connecting Resources, Driving Innovation

Innovative projects represent the synergy of wind energy with other renewable sources, energy storage systems, and complementary technologies, presenting a new frontier in sustainable energy solutions.

Our experts will explore the vast potential of hybrid projects, emphasizing the unique benefits they offer, such as increased energy reliability, grid stability, and enhanced environmental impact. We’ll tackle the challenges these projects may encounter and discuss strategies for overcoming them, all while identifying the golden opportunities they bring to the BSR’s energy landscape.

In this discussion, we’ll connect the dots between energy islands, green hydrogen, and offshore wind, demonstrating how these elements start converging to shape a greener and more interconnected energy market in the Baltic Sea Region.

Moderator:
Mr Steffen Hebsgaard Muff, Partner, NJORD Law Firm

Speakers:
Mr Mario Vee, Head of Business Development, Energiasalv
Ms Zofia Godula, Head of Infrastructure Business Development, Respect Energy

Networking break

Presentation: Ms Susanne Starheim-Grøtter, Director Business Development, Esgian

Panel II: Contracting Excellence: Navigating the Wind Project Lifecycle

Join our expert panel as we dissect the art of effective contracting for onshore and offshore wind energy projects. From choosing cutting-edge technology to navigating complex regulatory landscapes and addressing environmental and social responsibilities, we explore every aspect of the wind energy project lifecycle. Discover the strategies and insights that drive successful project development, ensuring sustainability, efficiency, and optimal performance.

Technology and Turbine Selection – Permitting and Regulatory Compliance – Supply Chain and Procurement – Risk Management – Project Timelines and Milestones – Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Agreements – Local and Community Engagement – Insurance and Risk Mitigation.

Moderator: Mr Piotr Nerwiński, Partner, Co-Head of Banking and Finance, Dentons

Speakers:
Ms Susanne Starheim-Grøtter, Director Business Development, Esgian
Mr Anders Søe-Jensen, International Renewable Energy Expert
Networking break

Presentation: Mr Nils Olschner, Director Sales & Business Development, Baltic Workboats

Panel III: Nurturing the Wind Energy Workforce in the Baltic Sea Region: Skills, Safety, Sustainability

We’ll begin by addressing the critical aspect of workforce skills and training, emphasizing the importance of continuous education and skill development to ensure that professionals are well-equipped to operate, maintain, and innovate in the wind energy industry. We’ll also discuss the crucial topic of local talent development, highlighting the significance of investing in education and training programs within the BSR countries to foster a skilled labor pool.

Safety is paramount in the wind energy sector, and we’ll unravel the complexities of safety standards and training. Our experts will shed light on best practices to create a culture of safety, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries in this challenging work environment.

With the cross-border nature of the BSR’s wind energy sector, we’ll explore the obstacles and opportunities associated with labor mobility and harmonizing workforce standards, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration.

Networking break

Panel IV: Ports and Wind: Developing Risk-Sharing Platforms and Expanding Strategic Partnerships.

Wind farms, both on- and offshore, rely on extensive infrastructure, and ports are the exclusive gateways for transporting the colossal components of wind turbines. Moreover, ports serve as crucial bases for assembling these components into complete turbines, ensuring a streamlined process from factory to installation. Recognizing the strategic significance of ports is paramount for the sector’s growth. Their accessibility influences investment decisions, and the lack of nearby ports can escalate transportation costs, jeopardizing project viability. By acknowledging the strategic role of ports, we can foster investments in port infrastructure, paving the way for larger offshore wind farms, job creation, and economic prosperity in the regions where these ports are situated.

Our panel will explore the dynamic relationship between ports, insurance companies, and wind farm developers. As ports are increasingly pressured to share the risks in wind farm development contracts, this discussion will shed light on the challenges and opportunities in ensuring the smooth progression of offshore wind projects and the industry’s continued success.

Speakers:
Ms Egle Mikalauskiene, Offshore Port Operations Commercial Manager, Ignitis Renewables
Mr Nils Olschner, Director Sales & Business Development, Baltic Workboats