Latvian and Netherlands wind energy business forum to take place

Renewable energy sources, like wind, will play an increasingly important role in meeting the challenges of the energy crisis. Therefore, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), in cooperation with the Embassy of the Netherlands and the Latvian Wind Energy Association on 12 April at 1.00 pm invites everyone to the Latvian and Netherlands wind energy business forum, which will take place in-person at the hotel Radisson Blu Latvia, Alpha Hall.

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Latvia Claudia Magdalena Njoo Pieterse: "The Netherlands and Latvia have long-standing trade relations, dating back more than 8 centuries. A relationship that is only growing closer – last year, we celebrated 100 years of diplomatic relations. The upcoming wind energy trade mission will again bring many expert Dutch companies to Latvia, looking for partnerships. The Netherlands has proven experience in the wind energy sector, with worldwide expertise and innovative technology and solutions. Just last month, my government announced that by 2030, offshore wind is to become the Netherlands' most significant power source, aiming at 21 GW of installed capacity. We support an industry that is sustainable in its growth, especially in relation to the increased need for energy security and a shift to a green transition. The sizeable Dutch offshore wind energy trade delegation traveling to Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania is a clear indication of the strong interest that Dutch companies have not only to identify potential partners and business opportunities but also to share their experiences and know-how. I very much look forward to what promises to be an exciting event!"

The aim of this forum is to introduce entrepreneurs and related organizations to the example of the Netherlands in the development of the wind energy sector both on land and at sea, as well as mark the further growth scenarios of the Latvian wind energy sector.

“Latvia has committed to completely end the use of fossil fuels by 2050 and wind energy is one of the directions we want to embark on. Only 2% of the total electricity produced in Latvia is from wind parks, whereas across the EU the average is 15%. Currently, we are working on several investment projects directly related to the development of wind parks, including the development of offshore wind parks where the wind turbines are built in the sea. The Netherlands has extensive experience in the development of such parks, therefore we see a potential for closer cooperation and partnership in the development of new projects,” emphasizes Kaspars Rožkalns, LIAA Director.

The business forum will provide insight into the wind energy sectors of both countries and mark the potential cooperation directions. The agenda of the forum includes two panels focusing on the role of ports in the development of wind parks and green hydrogen projects. Also, participants of the forum will be able to organize B2B meetings. 

At the event, the Netherlands will be represented by a delegation of entrepreneurs of the offshore wind park sector lead by Annette Wijering, Director of the International Trade Department at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, as well as Hans Timmers, Chairman of the Netherlands Wind Energy Association.

LIAA Director K. Rožkalns and Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Latvia, H.E. Claudia Pieterse will open the forum, followed by presentations of the industry representatives from both countries and panels on the topics like the role of ports and infrastructure in the development of wind farms and alternative energy sources like green hydrogen.

According to the data of the International Energy Agency (IEA), by 2042 offshore wind energy could become the main electricity generation source in Europe. Offshore wind energy not only allows us to reach climate and energy goals but also supports economic growth and opens new business opportunities. The common goal of the EU is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% in comparison to 1990 by 2030, and offshore wind parks are one of the steps which will help to achieve this goal. The Baltic Sea has great offshore wind energy potential, anticipating that the production capacity could increase more than 40 times by 2050.

Participation in the forum is free and the working language is English. You can discover the forum programme and secure your seat at the LIAA website. We would like to emphasize that only in-person presence will be available and remote participation is not planned.

Information prepared by LIAA Communication and Information Department. Contact: prese@liaa.gov.lv.