Seven offshore renewables projects given boost by Government

The Government has granted the first Maritime Area Consents for offshore wind projects following the publication of its Climate Action Plan 2023.

The Irish Government is paving the way for a series of major offshore renewable energy projects.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan, TD, issued Maritime Area Consents (MACs) to the first phase of seven offshore renewable energy projects today (23 December).

The issuing of MACs ensures that only projects with the greatest viability to deliver Ireland’s energy targets can progress into the planning system, and involves an assessment of each project’s financial and technical competency.

Today’s news follows the publication of the Climate Action Plan 2023, which includes updated targets for renewable energy.

Ryan said the awarding of these first MACs marks “a significant milestone”.

“We have given Ireland’s most viable and well-advanced offshore energy projects the opportunity to progress through the planning system and reach development,” he added.

“These first Maritime Area Consents have been carefully drafted to promote the speedy and efficient deployment of offshore renewable energy, while ultimately protecting the State’s rich and unique maritime resource, in line with the principles of the National Marine Planning Framework.”

One of the seven offshore projects to be awarded a MAC is the second phase of the Arklow Bank wind development, which will be situated off the coast of Co Wicklow.

Phase one and two of Codling Wind Park, Oriel Wind Park, Skerd Rocks, North Irish Sea Array, Bray Bank and Kish Bank are the other projects to receive MACS.

Projects that have been granted MAC status will be required to apply for development permission and secure a route to market within set timeframes. Phase One projects must pay an annual levy to the state under the terms of their MAC agreements.

The award of a MAC enables these projects to participate in the ORESS 1, the first auction for offshore wind under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme. ORESS 1 is expected to procure approximately 2.5GW of electricity generating capacity.

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