SSE Renewables remains committed to the delivery of the proposed up to 800MW Arklow Bank Wind Park 2, despite the project not being selected in Ireland's first competitive auction. The wind farm will be developed in an area located between 6km and 15km to the east of Arklow and will include between 36 and 60 machines situated on the Arklow Bank. The construction of Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 requires an investment of up to €2.5bn, targeting the first power in 2028 and completion in 2029.
SSE Renewables is exploring other routes to market, including ORESS contracts, as it prepares to submit a planning application later this year to Ireland's planning board, An Bord Pleanala. The wind farm, once operational, will deliver a multi-million-euro annual community fund.
Managing Director of SSE Renewables, Stephen Wheeler, expressed his disappointment with the auction result but emphasized the significance of Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 in their offshore pipeline. He said that the project has a vital role to play in contributing to Ireland's climate action targets, homegrown energy security, and economic growth. He also added that the project's completion will significantly benefit County Wicklow and North Wexford's economic well-being.
The project was granted a Maritime Area Consent (MAC) by Ireland's Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, in December 2022. This approval allows the project to begin its pre-planning application engagement under the new Maritime Area Planning Act process with An Bord Pleanala.
SSE Renewables' commitment to Arklow Bank Wind Park 2 underscores its dedication to renewable energy development in Ireland and its commitment to fighting climate change.
