Following a publication from The Hague setting out timelines for wind auctions and general wind energy ambition. Ireland has produced its timeline for wind auctions with indicative plans to meet its 2040 target of 20GW of offshore wind, read here.

From a European aspect, the target highlighted a significant increase in the collective ambition of NSECs members - including Ireland. It represented more than 85% of the EU-wide ambition of reaching 300GW by 2050, as set out in the EU strategy for offshore renewable energy.

Speaking on the matter, Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan stated that "Last year, in Dublin under the Irish Co-Presidency, the Energy Ministers from the NSEC and the European Commission agreed to a significant increase in our collective ambition in the deployment of offshore renewable energy”.

Recognising the investment necessary the Minister added, “Ireland and the NSEC understand the extraordinary level of capital investment required to deliver offshore wind, and the need for clear visibility of the pipeline to enable this investment in projects themselves and the deployment of ports and supply chains that they depend on.”

Adding, “Despite recent challenges to the sector internationally, offshore remains economically, strategically and sustainably sound and publication of our collective plans today provides a clear signal of confidence that Ireland and Europe remain unwavering in our long-term commitment to the sector."