An indicative but feasible projection of the development of an electricity system in the North Sea region shows that a POSEIDON approach could result in the region being:

A net exporter of sustainable electricity

Offshore renewable energy will be of crucial importance, if onshore system developments are aligned to support this development. Fossil-fuel power stations - both on and offshore - are needed to balance fluctuations in supply and demand. The region could play a crucial role in a sustainable power supply for Europe.

A net sink of carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide can be stored offshore in deep saline aquifers and in depleted or producing oil and natural gas fields (with or without enhanced production). The storage capacity under the North Sea is almost 100 GtCO2, which is equivalent to over 50 times the current CO2 emissions in the region. The region can therefore offer Europe a viable way to meet future challenging climate targets.