Set 6: Supporting Norwegian representation in the IEA Wind Task 34

The International Energy Agency (IEA) is an autonomous organization with 28 member countries. While working towards a sustainable energy supply, IEA strives to implement agreements for co-operation in the research and development of renewable energy conve rsion, such as wind. One proposed task of IEA Wind is called "Assessment of Environmental Effects and Monitoring Efforts for Wind Energy Systems in the Offshore and Land Based Settings" (Task 34), and will initiate a collaborative exchange of peer-reviewe d scientific research and methods for the assessment and monitoring of the environmental effects of wind energy development. Until now, Norway has been represented by the Norwegian Directorate for Water Resources and Energy (NVE). As NVE has expressed the wish to delegate this work to experts in the field, we are seeking financial support to represent Norway in IEA Wind Task 34. In contrast to the small size of the group, we have a broad representation including academic and industry experts on the imp act from wind energy developments in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. We have also an extensive experience in related environmental monitoring work. The immediate task of the group will be to represent Norway at a meeting held in Berlin in June, wh ere the final proposal of Task 34 will be drafted and where detailed activities within the task will be planned. The work further includes coordination of the nationally acquired new scientific and operational knowledge of environmental impact from wind e nergy installations, at meetings with other IEA member countries assigned to this task. Through this project our vision is that we will be better equipped to communicate with national stake holders, managers and industry representatives, and be more effec tive in our support to research projects regarding the impact from wind energy project at land and in the sea.