RWE Renewables (RWE) has received formal confirmation that its 824MW Dublin Array Offshore Wind Farm project has been successful in Ireland’s first Offshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (ORESS 1).
The formal announcement by the Irish State follows a provisional result announced last month.
Dublin Array will be one of Ireland’s first commercial offshore wind farms to be constructed, helping to meet the Government’s target of 5GW of offshore wind energy being connected to the Irish national grid by 2030.
It will be located on the Kish and Bray Banks, approximately 10km from the coastline of counties Dublin and Wicklow.
The project is being developed by RWEand Irish renewable energy firm Saorgus Energy.
RWE is leading the development on behalf of the partnership.
Once operational, the project will comprise 39 to 50 wind turbines, with the final decision on the exact number to be informed by ongoing surveys and detailed design work.
The project intends to apply for planning consent later this year and, subject to this being secured, construction of Dublin Array could begin in 2026.
Dublin Array was awarded its Maritime Area Consent (MAC) in December 2022.
A MAC is required for any proposed Irish offshore wind farm development to be able to seek a development consent.
Subject to a development consent being secured, the project could be operational by 2028.
Dublin Array will be RWE’s first offshore wind farm in Ireland, which RWE views as a key market, with additional projects already in development, including the 900 MW East Celtic Offshore Wind Farm.
RWE is also expanding its onshore wind farm and battery storage portfolio in Ireland.
Peter Lefroy, Dublin Array project director (pictured: centre) said: “This is a very significant day for the Dublin Array project, and for the future of offshore wind energy in Ireland.
“We are continuing to refine our overall plans for the project and intend to submit a planning application later this year.
“RWE has a strong track record of working closely with local communities and suppliers in the development of offshore wind projects and we will bring this experience to our engagement for the Dublin Array project.
“The positive economic benefits of Dublin Array will be seen by coastal communities in south Dublin and north Wicklow through our dedicated Community Benefit Fund, while the wider Irish population will benefit from our contribution to decarbonising the Irish energy system.
“The success of the first ORESS round is a huge milestone for Ireland in the fight against climate change
“We aim to further expand our offshore portfolio in Ireland, with our East Celtic project and others in development, and hope to participate in future auctions.”
Sven Utermöhlen, RWE chief executive for Offshore Wind, added: “We’re thrilled to have officially secured our route to market, solidifying our position in Ireland.
“We bring more than 20 years of offshore experience to help ensure the successful delivery of Dublin Array. We look forward to working with the Irish Government to help Ireland meet its 2030 climate targets and enhance security of supply.”