Ireland's Offshore Wind Energy Program Report Highlights €18.9 Billion Investment and 3.8GW Progress

Minister Darragh O'Brien emphasized the critical importance of developing Ireland’s offshore renewable energy (ORE) due to global events and significant international investment interest. Speaking at the launch of the Offshore Wind Energy Programme Annual Report, he noted that recent volatility in fossil fuel prices and supply disruptions underscore the need for Ireland to develop its abundant offshore wind resources. The success of the Tonn Nua auction, which attracted strong international interest despite failures in other international auctions, demonstrates confidence in Ireland's ORE sector and stable policy environment.

The report, produced by the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce, details 2025 achievements and 2026 actions across 9 government workstreams. Key developments include continued electricity grid expansion, supported by a Commission for Regulation of Utilities' Price Review 6 announcement allowing up to €18.9 billion investment in energy infrastructure between 2026 and 2030. Planning applications for all 5 Phase One projects off Ireland's East Coast, totaling 3.8GW (over 60% of current peak demand), have been lodged.

Other milestones include EirGrid’s engagement with Phase One projects and progress on the South Coast Designated Marine Area Plan (SC-DMAP), with Tonn Nua being the first of four sites auctioned. A National Designated Marine Area Plan (DMAP) proposal was published, set for 2027 publication to outline offshore projects across Ireland's maritime area. Port of Cork's redevelopment is on track for 2026 ORE readiness, and Ireland's offshore wind industrial strategy, 'Powering Prosperity,' was completed, leading to the launch of Propel Ireland, an 'Offshore Wind Centre of Excellence.' The Offshore Wind Skills Action Plan was also implemented, including new ORE courses and a skills hub. Minister O'Brien stressed the need for ongoing collaboration across government, industry, and citizens to achieve renewable energy ambitions and remove bottlenecks in planning, grid, and delivery. Minister of State Timmy Dooley reaffirmed the 5GW near-term objective for offshore wind.