IEA-OES turns 25

Posted 2026-01-07 in News

Celebrating 25 Years of International Collaboration on Ocean Energy

In 2026, the International Energy Agency’s Ocean Energy Systems (IEA-OES) Technology Collaboration Programme marks its 25th anniversary, celebrating a quarter-century of international cooperation to advance ocean energy technologies worldwide.

Since its establishment in 2001, IEA-OES has provided a unique platform for countries to work together on the research, development and deployment of ocean energy. Over the past 25 years, the collaboration has played a key role in strengthening knowledge exchange, supporting policy and regulatory discussions, advancing environmental understanding, and fostering international alignment in a sector that requires long-term innovation and collaboration across complex marine environments.

Today, as the global energy transition accelerates and the focus on net zero intensifies, the need for sustained international collaboration remains as important as ever. Ocean energy has a growing role to play in diversifying renewable energy systems, enhancing energy security and contributing to resilient, low-carbon power systems - particularly in coastal and island regions.

Throughout 2026, IEA-OES will mark its 25th anniversary through a series of dedicated activities and communications. These will highlight key milestones in the programme’s history, showcase the contributions of its members and partners, and reflect on the evolving role of ocean energy within the wider renewable energy landscape. The anniversary year will also look ahead, reinforcing IEA-OES’s long-term vision and its continued commitment to supporting the responsible and sustainable development of ocean energy worldwide.

Further information on the 25th anniversary activities will be shared throughout the year via the IEA-OES website and communication channels.