The INESCTEC.OCEAN, Portugal’s first Center of Excellence focused on ocean engineering, was officially launched on January 28th, with a kick-off meeting that marked the beginning of this ambitious six-year journey in maritime innovation led by INESC TEC.

The center, which will operate from 2025 to 2031, aims to advance key areas including offshore renewable energy, deep-sea monitoring, environmental impact assessment, and offshore aquaculture. Through collaboration with Norway’s SINTEF.OCEAN, a leading maritime research institution with over 70 years of experience, INESCTEC.OCEAN will benefit from international mentorship in its development.

“Portugal’s privileged coastal location and vast exclusive economic zone offer exceptional conditions for Blue Economy development. This Center of Excellence will leverage this potential through research and ocean engineering,” explains José Manuel Mendonça, high-level coordinator of INESCTEC.OCEAN.

Four scientific programs will be established, focusing on Marine Structures, Marine Robotics, Ocean Energy, and Ocean Data. The center will also create a network of onshore and offshore technological infrastructures for development and testing, while fostering collaboration between academia and industry through over 50 planned cooperation projects.

INESCTEC.OCEAN represents Portugal’s fifth Center of Excellence and the first in the maritime sector, marking a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to ocean innovation and sustainable maritime development.