Energia Renewables is currently holding a consultation in Waterford, Ireland, regarding an environmental report for an offshore wind energy project.
The developer has released a significant environmental report for the North Celtic Sea offshore wind energy project, which will be situated off the coast of Waterford.
This public consultation marks the second one conducted by Energia Renewables in relation to the offshore wind project and will span a duration of six weeks. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA Report) outlines the main components of the North Celtic Sea project and explains how data will be collected to facilitate the environmental assessment.
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The EIA scoping report also highlights the potential impacts of the project on the surrounding onshore and offshore environment, which will be evaluated by qualified experts.
The public consultation process will run from May 16th to June 26th, inclusive. Feedback from local communities and organizations in the south-east region is encouraged and welcomed.
Caroline Roche, the Offshore Environmental and Consents Manager at Energia Renewables, expressed, “The release of our Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Report is a crucial step as we advance the design of the North Celtic Sea offshore wind project.”
“We understand that safeguarding the local environment is of utmost importance. This consultation provides an excellent opportunity to gain further insights into the environmental aspects of offshore wind and how the North Celtic Sea project will adhere to the best practices in environmental management.”
“We appreciate feedback on the scoping report and eagerly anticipate discussions about the North Celtic Sea project throughout the consultation period.”
“We are committed to maintaining an ongoing consultation process as the project progresses, and we express our gratitude to everyone who has already engaged with us.”
Seabed surveys for the project were completed by Energia Renewables in late 2022.
The project team continues to conduct continuous onshore and offshore environmental surveys, including studies on seabirds and marine mammals. Additional investigations into ecology and hydrography will commence shortly.
The findings from these studies will play a vital role in shaping the design of the wind farm, including its location, size, and connection to the electricity grid.
Further consultations are scheduled to occur in the upcoming months to share updates on the project's design progress.
