Equinor has entered a partnership with Irish developer ESB to work on offshore wind projects in Ireland.
The tie-up will work to “mature” existing projects that are already in the pipeline and on new ones, said the Dublin-based outfit.
“It is the ambition of the partnership to explore opportunities for large scale wind projects towards commercial operation by 2030, thus contributing to the wider goals of the Irish Government on energy transition,” said ESB.
“The partnership is founded on a long-term vision held by both participants to develop well-designed offshore wind projects of scale, taking into account the needs and interests of key stakeholders.”
ESB has several projects in Irish waters in the early stages of planning, including the 500MW Clogherhead and 500MW Cooley Point, both off County Louth.
Energy storage and other technologies complimentary to offshore wind will also be examined.
ESB generation and trading executive director Jim Dollard (pictured, left) said: “Through this partnership, we are demonstrating our commitment to creating a low-carbon future, powered by clean electricity. The delivery of offshore wind projects in Ireland further supports our strategy to significantly reduce the carbon intensity of the electricity we generate.
“By collaborating with innovative, like-minded organisations such as Equinor we will play a leading role in the transition to a clean energy future. Equinor’s scale and capabilities making them an ideal long-term partner.”
Jens Okland (pictured, right), senior vice predicent for business development in Equinor’s New Energy Solutions division, said the company is looking forward to playing a part in the new market.
“ESB brings local knowledge and expertise and in the ongoing energy transition offshore wind can contribute as an important source of renewable providing energy to people and progress to society,” he said.