New Offshore Wind Partnership Targets Ireland

May 22, 2024, by Adnan Memija

Corio Generation and Bord Gáis Energy have joined forces to explore offshore wind opportunities in Ireland.

Corio Generation Bord Gáis Energy — *Source: Corio Generation*

The agreement represents Bord Gáis Energy’s entry into the offshore wind market while Corio Generation is already involved in the sector and is currently developing the 450 MW Sceirde Rocks wind farm off the west coast of Ireland.

“With its extensive coastline, abundant natural resources, and a clear and ambitious government strategy, Ireland is exceptionally well-placed to expand its offshore wind capabilities and enjoy the many benefits this could bring, from greener and more reliable energy to widespread economic investment and community gain,” said Jonathan Cole, CEO of Corio Generation.

Corio Generation and Bord Gáis Energy will explore offshore wind projects in Ireland through a newly created local company named Fuinneamh Óg Teoranta.

“This significant partnership with Corio will combine our power generation and route to market expertise, the financial backing of Centrica, and Corio Generation’s global experience in the development of offshore wind projects,” said Dave Kirwan, Managing Director of Bord Gáis Energy.

The Irish government has set a goal of generating 80 per cent of electricity through renewables by 2030, including 5 GW from offshore wind.

In March 2024, the Department of Energy, Climate and Communications published Ireland’s first-ever industrial strategy for offshore wind.

A couple of months later, the government published two further publications, a future framework document that outlined the country’s long-term approach to the growth of offshore wind generation, and a publication on potential areas of development (DMAPS) off the south coast of Ireland ahead of a planned auction round in late 2024.