Bord Gais Energy and Corio Generation have forged an alliance to explore opportunities in supplying offshore wind power to the country's electricity market. This collaboration marks Bord Gais Energy's foray into offshore wind, aligning with its commitment to enhance its renewable energy portfolio.
Corio Generation, with a robust global pipeline exceeding 30GW, is spearheading the development of the 450MW Sceirde Rocks wind farm off the west coast of Ireland. The partnership between Bord Gais Energy and Corio will entail a thorough assessment of emerging opportunities in Ireland's burgeoning offshore wind sector.
Activities stemming from this partnership will be facilitated through the establishment of a newly-registered Irish company, Fuinneamh Og Teoranta.
Dave Kirwan, Managing Director of Bord Gais Energy, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This significant partnership with Corio will combine our power generation and route to market expertise, the financial backing of Centrica, and Corio Generation's global experience in the development of offshore wind projects.”
Jonathan Cole, CEO of Corio Generation, expressed optimism about Ireland's potential in offshore wind development, citing the nation's extensive coastline, abundant natural resources, and ambitious government strategy. Cole stated, “By combining Corio's significant development expertise and Bord Gais' outstanding track record as a market leader in Ireland's energy sector, we have established a partnership that is ready to play a major role in Ireland's energy transition.”
The collaboration between Bord Gais Energy and Corio Generation comes at a pivotal juncture, as Ireland strives to achieve its renewable energy targets, including generating 80% of electricity through renewables by 2030, with 5GW sourced from offshore wind.
In March 2024, the Irish government unveiled its inaugural industrial strategy for offshore wind, aimed at fortifying the nation's offshore wind supply chain. Subsequent announcements in May 2024 outlined Ireland's long-term approach to offshore wind generation and identified potential development areas off the south coast of Ireland, laying the groundwork for upcoming auction rounds later in the year.
