Ireland's Oireachtas has approved the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP), identifying four future offshore wind farm sites off the southern coast. The approval clears the path for a 900-MW offshore wind farm, Tonn Nua, with the first auction for the project expected in early 2025. The wind farm is slated for completion in the early 2030s.
The plan was passed without opposition in both Seanad Éireann and the Dáil, marking a critical step for Ireland's offshore renewable energy sector.
Wind Energy Ireland chief executive Noel Cunniffe welcomed the decision, stating: “Ireland has taken a significant step forward in accelerating the development of offshore renewable energy. The approval of the first designated maritime area plan for offshore wind provides a pipeline of future projects and clears the way for the next offshore wind auction early in 2025.” He emphasized that projects like Tonn Nua would not only provide clean, affordable, and secure energy but also bring significant economic benefits to Ireland's south coast.
The south-coast DMAP was formulated after extensive public consultation by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, ensuring input from local communities, environmental stakeholders, and the fishing industry in the region.
Cunniffe also highlighted the importance of Ireland's first phase of offshore wind projects, known as the Phase One projects, which are applying for planning permission this year. He underscored that these projects, expected to be operational by 2030, are essential for building the supply chain and achieving Ireland's energy independence.
“The four new sites approved today represent the next generation of offshore wind energy projects,” Cunniffe added, noting that timely execution of Phase One projects should be a priority for the next government.
