Decisions taken now will shape our prosperity for decades. There is no room for further procrastination
A floating offshore wind turbine 20km off Portugal's coast: Ireland's Atlantic coast holds huge potential. Photograph: Miguel Riopa/AFP via GettyThe housing crisis, the cost of living and challenges within our health system will all be undeniable priorities for the parties forming the new government.is also on the priority list. However, energy stands apart because while it poses a challenge today, energy offers unique and unparalleled potential for the future.
The good news, thankfully, is that a steady roll-out of offshore projects can still be achieved, delivering energy independence, creating thousands of quality green jobs in coastal communities and regional hinterlands, and transitioning Ireland to a low-carbon economy. Floating offshore wind technology is developed, tested and ready for commercial deployment. The technology has been operating in harsh marine environments since 2017. Demonstration projects in Scotland, Norway and Portugal have proven viability even in severe conditions, thanks to advancements in materials, anchoring systems, dynamic cabling, process design and specialised vessels such as service operations vessels.
Research published in 2024 by UCC estimates a levelised cost of energy of €52 – €65MWh for a 1GW floating wind farm commissioned in 2035 off the southwest coast. This will rival or outperform fossil fuels, especially with carbon pricing.
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