Floating wind energy can be a game changing technology for Ireland, transforming it into a ‘European renewable superpower’, according to a new report by Wind Energy Ireland (WEI).
CEO of WEI Noel Cunniffe stated:
“There is enough renewable energy off our southern and western coasts to not only meet Ireland’s needs but to also become a major contributor to decarbonising Europe’s energy supply”.
SuperNode CEO John Fitzgerald echoes this sentiment:
“The best renewable resources in Europe are located on its peripheries and Ireland’s coasts reflect that, home to some of Europe’s best wind resources”
Ireland has set renewable targets of 5 GW of offshore wind by 2030 and 30 GW in the longer term. The majority of offshore wind turbines installed by 2030 will be fixed bottom but floating turbines can unlock the true potential of Ireland’s resources. Floating turbines can be located at greater depths further out to sea where wind speeds are higher and more consistent.
The WEI report recommends the recent Maritime Area Planning Bill be amended to allow environmental surveys for floating wind to take place beyond the 12 nautical mile limit as well as to prioritise floating wind in the national industry strategy.
Floating wind’s wider-spanning geography means, even more so than other forms of renewables, it will depend upon a pan-European SuperGrid and electrofuels for energy dense applications as routes to market and to reap its full benefits.
The report states:
“A pan-European SuperGrid will be required beyond this to ensure we can deliver upon the 30GW ambition, inclusive of new hybrid connections using innovative new technologies such as superconductivity”
SuperNode CEO John Fitzgerald added:
“Developing floating wind and offshore grid infrastructure both in Ireland and across Europe will be a key enabler of decarbonisation. A pan-European SuperGrid is the most cost-effective and efficient way to achieve our renewable potential as a continent.”
View WEI’s press release here.
View the full report here.