Representatives from the west of Norway have been in the isles to discuss how expertise can be shared.
They believe knowledge built up in Scandinavia through work in the oil and gas sector could prove key to the next stage in developing technologies.
Orkney is a major Scottish hub for renewables.
In January, plans for a Â£6.5m research and innovation campus in Stromness in Orkney took a step forward after the organisations driving the project agreed funding.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Orkney Islands Council are behind the venture.
The campus is aimed at supporting sectors including marine renewables.

Jake Lawlor headed the home side in front after 13 minutes, but out of the blue Torquay turned the match on its head in under two minutes.
First Sean McGinty headed in Luke Young's corner, and seconds later Jamie Reid threaded a ball through for Ruairi Keating to plant home.
Both sides missed further chances to add to the score, before Guiseley staged late drama.
Kevan Hurst struck with four minutes left before a frenetic goalmouth scramble led to Guiseley's winner, with the identity of the goalscorer unclear.
Match report supplied by the Press Association.
A partnership is being formed between the energy sectors in Orkney and Norway to look at ways they can work together to develop marine renewables.
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Guiseley turned impending defeat into victory against Torquay at Nethermoor Park with two late goals.