Latest News
Oceans of opportunity: Harnessing Europe’s largest domestic energy resource
The European Offshore Wind Conference in Stockholm (14th September 2009) saw the publication of a roadmap for the development of offshore wind in Europe which recommended the creation of a European wide energy grid. The grid would include links which would connect Ireland to Wales, Scotland and France and which would allow Ireland to be a significant net exporter of energy.
A new offshore report, map and network development plan can be viewed at the following link: www.ewea.org/offshore.
Codling Extension Application
Codling Wind Park have lodged an application with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for an extension to the consented Codling Wind Park Development.
The extension proposal comprises an additional 200 turbines (up to 1000MW) and is located approximately 13km off the east coast of Ireland in water depths of between 11 and 18 metres. The average output of the wind park, given wind speed variations on the site, would be sufficient to meet the annual electricity demand of at least 423,000 and possibly upwards of 706,000 average Irish households, and would have the ability to supply up to 38% of the government's 2020 target.
Additional information on the project will be posted here shortly.
East West Interconnector
June 2008 - Initial studies identify Rush Bay (North Co.Dublin) as the most suitable location for the cable to emerge onto land. The Marine survey has just been completed and Eirgrid will assess the results of the marine survey and other studies before selecting the most feasible route. The completion of the survey marks an important step forward for the project.
The Interconnector will enable the two-way transmission of power under the Irish Sea by connecting the transmission systems in the Republic of Ireland and Wales. Grid connection points have been secured in both countries.
It will be approximately 250 km in length and capable of transmitting 500 megawatts of electricity between Ireland and Wales. With the demand for energy estimated to grow at an average yearly rate of between 2.7% and 3.6% over the next seven years, the interconnector will contribute to improving the security of energy supply in Ireland.
For more information see: www.interconnector.ie
Minister Ryan launches new price support for offshore wind
Minister Ryan announced the latest change to the REFIT scheme, which will support the development of offshore wind-power projects at a price of €140 per megawatt hour of power produced. The full announcement can be viewed here.