Renewable energy is considered by both researchers as policymakers as one of the driving forces of the (knowledge) economy. Worldwide, substantial budgets are allowed to projects and infrastructure that drive and support this burgeoning industrial sector.

Together with Power-Link and Greenbridge, RESOC Ostend commissioned Ghent University to execute a strategic analysis of the Ostend cluster in the matter of renewable energy. Key factors to maintain and develop clusters are (1) a large diversity of players, (2) the need for an anchor organization and (3) sufficient inter-job mobility. It will be investigated to what extent these key factors are available and how they can be reinforced. This analysis will lead to the framing of a strategic action plan and the formulation of recommendations of how the Ostend cluster can be further developed.

The project analyses the vision of the future of various stakeholders (investors, big corporates, governments, etc.) concerning renewable energy, focusing on wind, bio-, solar and offshore energy. Furthermore, the current players in the Ostend cluster are mapped and the availability of necessary preconditions is studied. Thus,  among other things, insight into the nature of the motives of companies in their choice of establishment can be gained.

Finally the current and future role and expectations of strategic stakeholders will also be studied. Particular attention will be paid to the role granted to Greenbridge/Power-Link as anchor organizations within the cluster to take on a leading role together with the City of Ostend, AGHO and AG EOS to develop a top region for renewable energy.