Iarnród Éireann has confirmed intentions to seek planning permission for Ireland’s largest offshore wind hub at Rosslare Europort in Co Wexford.
The €220 million plan will see a major transformation of the existing port into the country’s primary base of offshore wind farms in the Irish and Celtic Seas.
Iarnrod Éireann, the Port Authority for Rosslare Europort, stated that it will help achieve Ireland’s renewable energy targets.
The proposed Rosslare Offshore Renewable Energy Hub will have the potential to support the installation of approximately 0.5GW to 1GW of offshore wind capacity each year.
It’s set to span 80 hectares, with two new heavy lift berths designed for offshore renewable energy components.
The €220 million plan will see a major transformation of the existing port into the country’s primary base of offshore wind farms in the Irish and Celtic Seas. Credit: Iarnród Éireann
Developers also wish to widen and deepen the port’s approach channel as well as reclaim 27.7 hectares of land from the sea.
This includes the creation of almost 20 hectares of new port lands capable of handling the largest wind turbine components.
The project will also involve the construction of extensive areas for storage, marshalling and assembly.
A new 64-berth, small boat harbour is also underway with new access roads, utilities, environmental enhancements and facilities for local marine users.
It is believed that the project will create 2,000 long-term jobs for the region. These include port construction, offshore wind construction activity and long-term operation and maintenance phases of offshore wind development.
Iarnród Éireann are set to submit plans to An Coimisiún Pleanála next week with hopes of construction commencing in 2027. A delivery date of early 2029 has also been earmarked.
It is believed that the project will create 2,000 long-term jobs for the Rosslare region. Credit: Iarnród Éireann
Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, heralded the plan as a “once in a generation investment in Ireland’s clean energy future”.
She said it would integrate “national transport and maritime infrastructure to unlock offshore wind potential and deliver sustainable growth for coastal communitie”.
“It will also be a significant boost for the South East, creating jobs in an emerging and vital industry, and becoming a crucial asset in Ireland’s energy transition journey.”
Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units with Iarnród Éireann, Port Authority for Rosslare Europort, declared it a “significant milestone”
“Delivering this nationally significant infrastructure will support the continued expansion Rosslare Europort, strengthen the local economy, support local employment and deliver on national and EU policy priorities.”
The EU Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) has also co-funded the project.
Feature Image Credit: Iarnród Éireann
