Developers to Hit the Brakes on Irish Offshore Wind Project

Engineers have begun pulling back from significant investments in Irish offshore wind farms after the government introduced stricter regulations on where these projects can be developed.

Barry Kilcline, Ireland's Head of Offshore at SSE Renewables, acknowledged that at least two major investment decisions had been abandoned due to the policy changes, although he did not disclose the companies involved. His own company also spent "several million" euros on plans for a wind farm off the coast of Louth, on Ireland's eastern seaboard, which is now in jeopardy.

The new rules pose a threat to Ireland's goal of generating up to 7 gigawatts of offshore wind power by the end of the decade. These wind farms are seen as crucial to achieving the broader target of sourcing 80% of the country’s electricity from renewables by 2030, alongside a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over the same period.

Climate Minister Eamon Ryan previously stated that the government’s strategy would "guide investment and decision-making" while supporting the establishment of upcoming Marine Protected Areas. However, many in the industry disagree, warning that the policy shift is jeopardizing investment in the sector.

While over 30 gigawatts of offshore wind projects are currently in development, only 4.4 gigawatts will be eligible to participate in the first Irish auction, set to open next month. Investors fear that much of the remaining capacity could become unfeasible.

Wind Energy Ireland, the industry body, informed its members in a note that it was aware of companies beginning to redeploy staff to projects outside of Ireland due to the policy changes.