The developers of the Oriel Wind Farm in Ireland, Parkwind and ESB, have expressed their commitment to continue working towards the realization of the project. This is despite not being awarded a contract in the country’s first offshore wind auction. The determination echoes SSE Renewables’ stance on its Arklow Bank II project. It also did not secure a contract in the same auction round.
While disappointed by the outcome, Parkwind and ESB believe in the potential of the Oriel project. They also believe in its contribution to generating the renewable electricity Ireland needs. A spokesperson from Parkwind stated, “We will continue to progress the project and are actively investigating alternative routes.”
Oriel Wind Farm was not among the auction winners. However, Parkwind emphasized that the auction marked an important milestone in Ireland’s journey to decarbonize its electricity system further. SSE Renewables, the 800 MW Arklow Bank Wind Park II developer, also expressed its commitment to delivering the proposed offshore wind farm. This is despite not securing a contract for renewable energy generation.
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Development of the Oriel Wind Farm Project
The Oriel Wind Farm is proposed to be off the North Louth coast. It has a capacity of 375 MW. Furthermore, it is expected to provide renewable energy to power approximately 300,000 Irish households once operational.
The project obtained Maritime Area Consents (MACs) in late 2022, along with the other five Phase One projects, after being fast-tracked by the Irish government. Parkwind, a Belgium-based developer, acquired a stake in the Oriel offshore wind farm in 2017 through an investment agreement with Oriel Windfarm Ltd. Ireland’s Electricity Supply Board (ESB) joined the project two years later.
Despite the setback in the auction, Parkwind, ESB, and SSE Renewables remain steadfast in their dedication to advancing offshore wind projects in Ireland and contributing to the country’s renewable energy goals.
