EDF Renewables and Fred Olsen Renewables have launched a public consultation for the 1500MW Codling Bank offshore wind farm off Ireland’s east coast.
The developers say the first phase off County Wicklow as the potential to supply the equivalent of up to 1.2 million Irish homes with low-carbon, locally-produced, low-cost electricity, and to save almost 2 million tonnes of carbon emissions every year.
The project will deliver “substantial benefits” to the regional and national economy, including more than 1,000 construction jobs and 70 long-term, locally-based jobs, said the partners.
Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, face-to-face engagements are not possible and so a series of online consultation activities will take place from 1 March.
In addition to a two-week virtual exhibition, there will also be two webinars hosted by the project team and a series of virtual information clinics to facilitate individual and small group meetings with project representatives.
Further phases of consultation are planned for the summer and autumn to share updated plans as the project progresses and provide further opportunities for feedback.
Codling Wind Park project director Arno Verbeek (pictured) said: “Our ambition is to not only develop a project of which Ireland can be proud, but to help create the right conditions for the development of a strong and sustainable offshore wind industry in Ireland. We want to contribute to Ireland’s low carbon ambitions and help generate a cleaner environment, not only for today’s generation, but for generations to come.”
He added: “We are in the early stages of planning our project and this is the first of many opportunities people will have to see our progress and provide their feedback. Listening to and engaging with the public and all our stakeholders is an important part of our journey, as we want to do this in partnership.”
Subject to all necessary permits and consents being received, Codling could begin construction in 2024-25.