Wind Energy Ireland has welcomed the Irish Government’s Budget 2026 commitment of an additional €8 million to support offshore wind development.
The investment will fund marine surveys to identify suitable sites for future wind farms within Ireland’s national Designated Maritime Area Plan, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027.
The organisation also welcomed increased funding to strengthen the capacity of State agencies including the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, EirGrid and ESB Networks.
Noel Cunniffe, chief executive of Wind Energy Ireland (pictured), said the announcement “provides the confidence that the necessary funding will be available to do the job properly”.
He said: “Ensuring we have the right people, expertise and resources in place to deliver the national DMAP on time is essential.”
Cunniffe added that the investment “will help transform our electricity system and accelerate the delivery of clean, affordable and secure energy for Irish families and businesses”.
Wind Energy Ireland said the measures would support the development of the country’s offshore resources while advancing the transition to a low-carbon energy system.