Society, Politics and Economics

This domain of expertise addresses the societal, legal, economic, and geopolitical aspects of offshore wind energy development.

It explores effective policies, robust regulatory frameworks, economic competitiveness, international maritime law, and proactive strategies for stakeholder engagement and social acceptance. Integrating expertise from energy policy, law of the sea, energy law (both contractual and regulatory), economic analysis, and strategic communication, this interdisciplinary group supports the sustainable and inclusive growth of offshore wind energy projects in a highly competitive environment.

Our research group team leads

• Prof. Frederik Vandendriessche – Expert in energy law and regulation (offshore wind legal frameworks), covering grid interconnection rules, market design (flexibility, congestion management), and regulatory issues for hybrid projects.
• Prof. Klaas Willaert – Specialist in maritime law and the law of the sea, providing legal expertise on ocean use and offshore installations.
• Prof. Marten Ovaere – Analyses the economics of offshore wind energy, including electricity markets, offshore wind support (contracts for differences), offshore bidding zones, citizen participation  and industrial policy to strengthen the offshore wind sector’s competitiveness.
• Prof. Thijs Van de Graaf – Focuses on energy policy and geopolitics, including climate policy, industrial strategy, and the geopolitics of offshore wind, critical materials, and hydrogen.
• Prof. Veroline Cauberghe – Communication and public engagement expert working on social acceptance of blue energy projects, developing strategies to strengthen involvement and engagement of all stakeholders in sustainable offshore initiatives.