No new wind farms approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála in Q1 2026

08 May 2026

Over a dozen projects waiting more than a year for a decision

No new wind farms were approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála in the first quarter of 2026, down from seven projects (402 MW) approved during the same period last year.

According to Wind Energy Ireland’s latest quarterly planning report, published today, this slowdown comes despite a strong pipeline of projects with nearly 2,500 MW currently in the planning system.

The report also shows that nine projects with an estimated capacity of 592 MW have been waiting more than a year for a decision with an additional six projects, 406 MW, in the planning system for more than two years.

Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, said: “At a time when Ireland is again exposed to the volatility of global fossil fuel markets, Irish wind farms reduce our reliance on imports and strengthen our supply of clean, local, electricity.

“Today’s report shows that no new wind farms were approved in the first quarter of 2026 and nearly 1,000 MW of projects have been waiting over a year for a decision which is extremely frustrating. While An Coimisiún Pleanála is working towards clearer statutory timelines, in practice many projects are still waiting longer than expected.

“Closing the gap between the statutory timelines and actual decisions is essential to cut bills for Irish consumers.”

2025 annual figures

Wind Energy Ireland’s Q1 2026 planning report follows a mixed year for planning decisions in 2025. The industry body’s analysis found that 15 new wind energy projects totalling 626 MW were approved last year.

While the total number of decisions was relatively low, it was one of the strongest years so far for the proportion of projects approved by the Coimisiún, with an 88% approval rate compared to 45% in 2024.

Noel Cunniffe said: “While the grant rate of wind energy projects in 2025 was higher than previous years, fewer planning decisions were published than 2024 and 2023 – all while the backlog of applications keeps growing.

“There are currently 40 wind energy projects in the planning system. Each of these projects is an opportunity to strengthen Ireland’s energy security and reduce our vulnerability to volatile global fossil fuel prices.

“We must see timely and robust decisions, that adhere to the statutory timelines so that these projects can deliver more affordable, clean electricity to homes and businesses across the country, at a time when it is needed most.”

Positive start Q2 2026

Despite a poor start to the year the second quarter began positively as An Coimisiún Pleanála granted permission for three new wind farms in April.

Noel Cunniffe added: “On a more positive note, it is encouraging to see three new wind farms approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála since the beginning of April.

“This trend needs to continue to build positive momentum, to get a steady stream of projects coming out of the system and to tackle the growing backlog. Accelerating projects to construction will better protect Irish consumers from high energy prices and create jobs around Ireland.”