Getting stakeholders aboard for offshore wind decommissioning: A qualitative study on end-of-life challenges in Belgium

Abstract

Decommissioning offshore wind farms presents significant challenges as the sector approaches the final phase of its operational lifecycle. This research examines end-of-life challenges through the perspectives of a diverse range of stakeholders, including industry, government, research, and civil society. While the study focuses on Belgian stakeholders, the challenges and solutions are expected to be relevant to similar cases. Semi-structured interviews identified 67 challenges across five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and monitoring site recovery. These challenges span technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions. Among them, 27 newly recognized challenges were identified. Key issues, such as composite recycling, removal legislation, port suitability, artificial reef effects, and uncertainty surrounding dismantling approaches, emerged as central concerns. These concerns were highlighted by nearly all stakeholder groups. This study addresses gaps in existing knowledge by providing comprehensive stakeholder mapping for the end-of-life phase of offshore wind farms. It incorporates stakeholder perspectives into the identification and evaluation of challenges. To validate findings, the study includes a qualitative analysis that separately examines expert stakeholders. The findings offer a detailed understanding of major concerns in offshore wind decommissioning. Recommendations include ensuring transparent grid connections, developing improved removal strategies, and adopting a more coordinated approach to transport and logistics. Waste management recommendations focus on improving blade design and addressing policy and economic issues for existing blades. The study underscores the importance of stakeholder engagement. It highlights the need for systematic involvement in end-of-life research, offering valuable insights for sustainable decommissioning practices.