Preface to the special issues of the International Conference on Ocean Energy 2024

The International Conference on Ocean Energy (ICOE) 2024 marked a significant milestone in the event’s history, taking place in Melbourne, Australia, from September 16–18, 2024. This was particularly notable as it was the first time the conference has been hosted in the Southern Hemisphere. The conference programme covered all aspects of the ocean energy sector, from markets and technology developments to socio-economic and environmental aspects and future investment opportunities, and ICOE continues to be highly relevant for professionals, researchers, and policymakers from around the world who are dedicated to advancing ocean energy technologies, policy, and collaboration. This biennial conference, renowned for its focus on the development of ocean energy - wave energy, tidal and ocean currents, ocean thermal energy and salinity gradient – continued its tradition of fostering innovation, collaboration, and dialogue in these sectors.