Wind Energy Ireland CEO Noel Cunniffe today launched the Offshore Wind Action Plan 2026. He joined the Morning Ireland team on RTÉ Radio One this morning to discuss the promise of offshore wind for Ireland — and the potential challenges we'll need to overcome to bring large-scale offshore renewable power to Ireland.
The plan identifies 18 actions for delivery over the next 12 months with key priorities including:
- An Coimisiún Pleanála must be supported to deliver on its commitment to offshore wind planning decision timelines – including getting the first decision out in September;
- The CRU, EirGrid and industry must finalise all grid agreements and specifications for the existing east-coast projects so they can connect to the grid;
- Clarity is needed on Ireland’s future offshore wind pipeline, which sites will be available to progress and when;
- The Government must publish the National Ports Policy and, where a strong and credible business case is made, facilitate State investment in ports so they can build Irish offshore wind farms.
- The Government should advance plans for coastal Green Energy Parks which use offshore wind energy to attract new industries and create jobs.