Ireland’s ambition to deliver large-scale floating offshore wind will depend on major investment in port infrastructure, according to new research.
A Wind Energy Ireland blog post by Afloat contributor Captain Michael McCarthy, who wrote previously about Ireland's offshore wind ambitions, has highlighted findings from the SEAI-funded Developing Irish Floating Offshore Wind Technology (DIFOWT) project on where ports can support floating offshore wind.
Ireland has some of Europe’s strongest offshore wind resources, particularly off the south, west and north coasts, where deep waters limit fixed-bottom turbines.
Floating offshore wind offers an alternative by mounting turbines on floating platforms anchored to the seabed.
The Government has set an ambition for up to 30 GW of floating offshore wind within an overall offshore target of 37 GW by 2050.
Researchers say delivering this scale of development will require ports with deep water, long quays, large land areas and sheltered waters for assembly and storage.
“Floating wind ports must handle not just components but full turbine and platform integration,” the authors state.
Modelling from the DIFOWT project suggests existing and planned Irish ports are not sufficient to meet the 2050 target without further development.
The research identifies only two locations with suitable natural conditions for large-scale turbine integration.
The Shannon Estuary is described as a prime candidate due to its deep water, wide channels and multiple development sites, including Moneypoint and Foynes Island.
Development plans are advancing, though final specifications will depend on investment and planning approvals.
Bantry Bay is also highlighted for its deep, sheltered waters and large wet storage potential.
Proposals are progressing for a new 150-acre offshore renewable energy port on the north side of the bay.
The authors note that other ports will still play vital roles across operations, maintenance, cable handling and supply chain support.
Early policy clarity and coordinated investment are described as critical to capturing the economic benefits of floating offshore wind.
Read the full post here
