The Irish government has granted leases to seven phase one offshore wind farms vying for completion before 2030.
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan told national radio this morning that he has signed so-called Marine Area Consents (MACs).
The projects include SSE Renewables up to 800MW Arklow Bank 2 and EDF Renewables and Fred Olsen Seawind’s 1.5GW Codling, both off County Wicklow.
The MACs grant exclusivity over the seabed and allow the phase one developers to complete their final environmental surveys and to apply to An Bord Pleanála for planning permission in the first half of 2023.
Developers are also expected to also file bids for the projects in the first offshore wind auction ORESS-1, which opens later this year.
Wind Energy Ireland has welcomed Minister Ryan’s announcement this morning.
Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, said: “This is another big step forward for offshore wind energy in Ireland. It means these projects will be able to apply for planning permission and compete in the first offshore renewable energy auction next year.
“Today’s announcement is renewed evidence of the Government’s determination to deliver its ambitious offshore wind energy target and will give confidence to our industry and the international supply-chain.
“It is essential we keep up the momentum. The welcome announcement earlier this month that An Bord Pleanála will be instructed to prioritise applications from offshore wind needs to be backed up with resources.
“We cannot build these wind farms if we cannot get planning permission for them and we cannot do this without a planning system that is fit for purpose, robust and transparent.”