Four Youth Visions for Marine Renewable Energy in CEE
In the dynamic field of renewable energy, a new generation of pioneers is making waves. Among them are four young Blue Energy Fellows, each at the early stages of their promising careers – Marian Ignat, Slaviana Peeva, Martin Velichkov and Ciel Bovary.
These bright minds are not only pushing the boundaries of offshore wind technology but also carving out their paths as future leaders in sustainable energy. Join us as we explore their journeys, innovative projects, and the fresh perspectives they bring to the world of offshore wind in the Black Sea region and Central and Eastern Europe.
Tell us a little bit about yourself…
Marian is a 23-year-old activist, freelance journalist, and aspiring energy and environmental policy analyst. He graduated in Political Science in early 2023 with a thesis on political ecology in Costa Rica, after spending two years at the University of Bucharest and one at the Carlos III University of Madrid. Marian is also a prospective student at Sciences Po and will start his Master in Public Policy – Energy, Environment and Sustainability in August this year. Over the past years, he has worked with WWF, Generation Climate Europe, Ashoka, and Youth and Environment Europe.
Slaviana is a researcher at Universidad de Cádiz, Spain, with a background in environmental history and maritime economics.
Martin’s academic and professional journey spans various fields. He holds advanced degrees in political science, nutrition science, and pharmacology, complemented by a PhD in Psychology. This background has equipped him with a unique, interdisciplinary perspective on the socio-political and environmental challenges we face today. Currently, he is a Blue Book trainee at the European Commission.
Ciel is currently a master’s student reading for Global Entrepreneurship, Economics, and Management. In his free time he enjoys reading and discovering new art galleries and cafes.
What initially attracted you to this fellowship program?
I believe that EPG’s work is widely respected and I was attracted by the idea of joining this team of professionals to strengthen the governance knowledge needed to develop offshore wind energy capacity in the Black Sea. Secondly, I was particularly interested in participating in the activities of the Black Sea Energy Coalition and sharpening my skills in stakeholder engagement.
– Marian Ignat
I saw this fellowship as a chance to contribute to a transformative project, the BLUECEE initiative, which focuses on fostering sustainable energy practices across Central and Eastern Europe. Given my passion for sustainable development and policy advocacy, this role aligned perfectly with my professional goals and my desire to drive impactful change in energy governance in our region.
– Martin Velichkov
What new skills or knowledge have you gained during your fellowship?
During the fellowship, I deepened my understanding about sustainable exploitation of sea resources and the optimal use of sea space. Researching the concept of Multi-Use, I learned about the socio-economic and environmental benefits of combining offshore wind energy with aquaculture and offshore wind with desalination plants, and the potential co-existence of offshore wind and nature.
– Slaviana Peeva
I am more confident in my knowledge of the offshore wind energy industry, especially in the Romanian and Black Sea context. I’ve also followed the development and approval of the Offshore Wind Energy Law and I’ve participated in several working groups discussing issues such as environmental co-existence, which I’m particularly fond of. I am certainly more familiar with the terminology used in this field and I believe that this will be a great advantage in my Master’s.
– Marian Ignat
I gained a heightened attention to details and now, proudly so, I understand how offshore wind farms are one of the main tools in reaching the 2050 net zero target.
– Ciel Bovary
What aspects of marine renewable energy excite you the most for the future?
Marian Ignat finds it exciting that some studies show how infrastructure built in the sea can act as an artificial reef and attract fish to the area. He often worries about the anthropocentric impact on biodiversity, and these new findings are truly inspiring to him. They highlight the importance of the design process in preserving the ecosystem while building clean energy power plants.
The scientific and technological capacity of integrating two major infrastructures such as a floating wind turbine and an aquaculture cage, for example. A consortium from the Canary Islands has been chosen to develop such a multi-use platform. It will conduct real-world tests for the first time, integrating marine energy production with live fish aquaculture in the Atlantic region.
– Slaviana Peeva
The potential of offshore wind energy is one of the most exciting aspects of marine renewable energy, especially when it comes to the Black Sea region. I am particularly fascinated by the possibilities of biodesign in offshore wind turbines, which combines sustainability with innovative engineering to minimize environmental impact. The chance to contribute to a project that explores these innovations while addressing regional energy needs has been very enriching.
– Martin Velichkov
A key takeaway, quote, or a story that you’ll remember.
During the capacity building on environmental co-existence and regulatory set-up that EPG organised in Bucharest, someone said that ‘there is no sense in making progress on one front and losing on the other’. This speaker was talking about carefully considering the environmental impact of renewable energy projects, and I think this is crucial. While the rush to net zero is paramount in tackling the climate crisis, overlooking the impact on nature will only hinder the progress towards a truly clean and just economy for all.
– Marian Ignat
One memorable experience during my time with the CSD was a working group session where participants discussed the challenges of implementing offshore wind projects in the Black Sea. Hearing firsthand the perspectives of stakeholders from various sectors was both enlightening and inspiring. A particularly striking moment was when a partner from a coastal community shared how collaborative governance could transform their local economy. This experience reinforced my belief that successful renewable energy initiatives rely on inclusive, community-focused approaches.
– Martin Velichkov
As these young Blue Energy Fellows continue to develop their careers and push the boundaries of offshore wind technology, their work serves as a testament to the power of innovation and dedication. Their efforts not only contribute to the advancement of renewable energy but also inspire a new generation of environmental stewards. By harnessing the power of the sea and prioritizing sustainable design, they are helping to create a cleaner, greener future for all.
