Decision on Ireland’s First Offshore Wind Farm in 20 Years Expected by September 21

A decision on Ireland’s first offshore wind farm in over 20 years, the Oriel Windfarm, is expected by September 21. The project, located off the Co Louth coast and jointly owned by ESB and Parkwind, seeks permission to erect 25 turbines capable of powering 300,000 homes. If approved, it would be Ireland’s second offshore wind farm and the first since Arklow Bank Windfarm began operating in 2004.

Wind Energy Ireland CEO Noel Cunniffe stated that a decision on the Arklow Bank replacement is due by early December, with three other developments off Dublin and Wicklow expected in the first half of next year. Minister Darragh O’Brien emphasized the importance of home-grown, affordable, clean renewables for Ireland’s energy security and economic development, especially given global energy supply risks.

O’Brien affirmed the Government’s commitment to constructing the first offshore wind project since Arklow Bank by 2030, operational by the early 2030s. He acknowledged delays in meeting 2030 climate targets but noted new onshore wind farms would also contribute. Regional targets for new renewable projects will be finalized within months to ensure equitable distribution and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.