SSE Renewables has completed construction of its 101-megawatt Yellow River Wind Farm in County Offaly, with the 29-turbine facility now fully operational and supplying renewable electricity to the Irish grid, the company said on Wednesday.
The wind farm, located near the village of Rhode, is expected to generate enough electricity to power almost 75,000 homes each year and displace approximately 70,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
The project reached commercial operation following EirGrid’s completion of upgrade works at the Derryiron 110kV transmission station, which enabled a firm grid connection, along with final turbine commissioning checks.
Construction of the wind farm began in October 2022, with turbine installation starting in December 2023. The site achieved first energisation in December 2024. At peak, the project supported up to 150 full-time construction jobs, accounting for approximately 400,000 recorded working hours.
SSE Renewables managing director Stephen Wheeler said the project reinforces Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions: “The successful completion of Yellow River demonstrates our commitment to delivering Ireland’s climate and energy security goals.”
The project forms part of Ireland’s national Climate Action Plan, which targets 80% of electricity consumption to come from renewable sources by 2030.
Supply chain partners on the project included Nordex Group as turbine supplier, Farrans Construction for civil works, Suir Engineering for electrical balance of plant, and the Port of Galway for logistics support.
Heather Donald, director of onshore wind, solar and battery at SSE Renewables, said the delivery was a “fantastic achievement for our entire team and supply chain partners.” She added that Yellow River will deliver long-term regional value through a multi-year community benefit fund and sustained local investment.
SSE said it will continue working with government, industry and communities to advance further renewable energy projects, including new onshore and offshore wind developments across Ireland.
