Ocean Winds and Bord na Móna sign memorandum of understanding for Rosslare Europort plan
Offshore wind energy specialists Ocean Winds and Bord na Móna have a signed a memorandum of understanding with Iarnród Éireann to develop suitable port and harbour solutions for delivering offshore wind developments.
This strategic partnership underscores the commitment of all parties to accelerate Ireland’s offshore wind energy ambitions and leverage the potential of Rosslare Europort (of which Iarnród Éireann is port authority) as a key hub for the development of offshore wind projects in Irish waters with the potential to create 2,000 jobs.
Bord na Móna and Ocean Winds established a joint venture in 2022, recognising the need to expedite the development of offshore wind energy in Ireland. The recently published draft South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) highlights Rosslare Europort’s strategic positioning for potential offshore wind projects.
The collaboration will focus on developing port and harbour facilities that are essential for the construction, operation, and maintenance of offshore wind farms. It aims to position Rosslare Europort as a critical infrastructure asset in Ireland’s renewable energy landscape, foster local industry growth and provide employment within the local area. This initiative also aligns with Ireland’s broader goals of transitioning to a sustainable energy future and reducing carbon emissions.
The port is uniquely located within 60-100 nautical miles of most of the planned developments in the Irish and Celtic seas, including many of the portfolio of ORE projects envisaged by the draft South Coast DMAP.
To deliver its vision for ORE, Rosslare Europort plans significant works, including a purpose-built quay and berth; quayside storage and pre-construction; a navigable channel dredged down to a minimum of 9 metres depth; and management control centre & management offices and facilities for operations and maintenance.
Dan Finch, strategic oversight director officer and country manager for Ireland & Poland, Ocean Winds, said: “We are pleased to partner with Rosslare Europort to advance Ireland’s offshore wind energy ambitions. This MoU represents a significant step towards creating the necessary infrastructure to support large-scale renewable energy projects, which are vital for achieving our national climate goals.”
John Reilly, head of renewable energy, Bord na Móna, said: “We believe that Rosslare Europort’s strategic location and capabilities make it an ideal hub for offshore wind projects, and we look forward to working together to realise this potential.”
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