EirGrid to commence survey process for Waterford offshore wind farm
EirGrid’s Head of Public Engagement Sinéad Dooley said it's "imperative" that EirGrid hears from local communities.
EirGrid will begin to commence marine and coastal surveys for the construction of Tonn Nua, the 900 megawatt wind farm slated to be built off the coast of Waterford by 2033.
EirGrid said the surveys will gather “detailed data on seabed conditions, marine ecology and other environmental factors.”
The information will then be used to inform the project design. The surveys will be carried out by Geodata company Fugro.
A series of public consultations will take place across Waterford, Wicklow and Cork. On April 14, EirGrid representatives will be present at the Promenade, Tramore and Bunmahon Beach Car Park at 10am and 2pm respectively.
Tonn Nua is part of a series of planned wind farms off Ireland’s south coast, with a further three developments planned down the line.
The total development is hoped to deliver five gigawatts of renewable energy into the Irish grid upon completion.
Figures involved in the windfarm’s delivery have framed it as a key strategic asset in attracting foreign investment, driving regional growth and establishing greater energy independence.
“Over the next 25 years, there's going to be €15-20 billion of capital expenditure in building out these projects, so that's significant,” South East Energy Agency CEO Paddy Phelan said at a recent conference at the Port of Waterford.
“We're looking at this as not being jobs just for the next 20 years. We're looking at this stimulating those large, heavy industries, if they choose to come here."
