Partnership to propel offshore wind projects in Ireland

Energia Group and Vårgrønn have recently entered a partnership to co-develop offshore wind projects that align with the Irish Government’s goal of achieving a minimum of 5GW of new offshore wind by 2030, with ambitions beyond this target. Energia Group is an Irish renewable-focused utility, while Vårgrønn is a Norwegian offshore wind company.

Initially, the partnership will concentrate on Ireland's south and east coasts, leveraging Energia Renewables' extensive development work over the past four years on a North Celtic Sea site (with up to 900MW capacity) and a South Irish Sea site (with up to 900MW capacity). Seabed surveys, three years of aerial data collection on wildlife, and environmental impact assessment preparations are already underway across these sites. Engagement with local fisheries and communities is also in progress. Both projects are set to potentially become operational by 2030, contingent on government policy.

Energia Group CEO, Ian Thom, expressed eagerness for collaboration with Vårgrønn, highlighting the integration of their experience in Irish renewable energy projects with Vårgrønn's offshore wind expertise and supply chain connections. He emphasized their partnership's capability to deliver new offshore capacity by 2030, significantly contributing to Ireland's offshore wind objectives.

Vårgrønn CEO, Olav Hetland, echoed the sentiment, praising the synergy of Energia Renewables' existing development work and Vårgrønn's specialized offshore wind knowledge. The collaboration is deemed crucial for effective project delivery, scaling affordable power, and fostering local job opportunities.

This joint venture announcement follows Ireland's inaugural offshore wind auction in June, initiated through the Offshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (ORESS). Presently, Ireland has 25MW of offshore wind capacity, with a broader aspiration of reaching 37GW by 2050