Norway has proposed a new law to develop sea-based wind power as part of a plan to diversify from offshore oil and gas in favour of renewable energy.

The Norwegian Government has proposed a strategy to initiate a process of identifying sea areas suitable for future development of offshore wind power.

“Through the proposed act and the strategy for offshore renewable energy the Government establishes a framework and future possibilities for a new green industry,” said Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Terje Riis-Johansen. He said the proposal creates a framework for ensuring that energy infrastructure is planned, constructed and operated with due concern for energy supply, environment, security, fisheries, sea transport and other interests.

According to a report filed by Reuters, the proposed act, which has to be debated and approved by the Parliament where the government has a slim majority, says that wind resources at sea belong to the state.

Norway will identify areas suitable for offshore wind development and then offer areas as it does for oil and gas licenses. The draft sets up technical details related to applying for concessions, setting up, operating and closing installations.