South East offshore wind projects “must be accelerated, not stalled” says MEP
“We are still in an energy crisis—these offshore wind projects must be accelerated, not stalled,” the Fine Gael politician said.
Ireland South MEP Seán Kelly has called on the new Minister for Energy, Darragh O’Brien, to prioritise the development of various offshore wind development projects in the south east amid concerns that planning processes could present bottlenecks in the progression of the first group of wind farms in the south east.
The former President of the GAA has warned that Ireland can only take advantage of the “once-in-a-generation opportunity to become a European leader in offshore wind, driving down energy prices while ensuring energy security and sustainability”, if the projects are treated as a national priority.
“Minister O’Brien must ensure these projects are delivered—on time, and without unnecessary delay," he said.
Mr Kelly warned that the projects are at risk of being delayed by “prolonged planning processes and state-issued licensing bottlenecks” and called on An Bord Pleanála to prioritise such projects and deliver speedy planning decisions.
“We are still in an energy crisis—these offshore wind projects must be accelerated, not stalled,” the Fine Gael politician said.
“Delays mean higher costs and greater uncertainty. All processes must be streamlined, and we cannot have these projects held up by objectors. These are critical national infrastructure projects, and they must be treated as such by Government, with prioritisation, resourcing, and acceleration.”
Mr Kelly also noted concern that stronger political commitment is needed to ensure that the country's energy grid is ready to support the offshore wind projects.
“There is no point in having offshore wind farms ready to deliver power if our electricity grid isn’t prepared to accommodate them,” said Mr Kelly.
“EirGrid’s strategy must be implemented in full, with Government ensuring the necessary grid reinforcements progress swiftly through planning.”
Waterford will be the site of one of the wind farms to be constructed in Phase Two of the government’s planned offshore wind generation projects, but the Tonn Nua project - to deliver 900MW of power - is scheduled after the completion of Phase One.
These offshore wind projects will deliver clean, low-cost energy sources, with the auction process of the Phase One wind farms averaging a cost of €86 per MWh – compared to the average price of €168 so far in 2025, and the nearly €100 price throughout 2024.
“Ireland’s offshore wind sector is central to Ireland being a competitive, net zero, and energy-independent economy,” Mr Kelly noted.
“At a time of volatile electricity prices, these projects offer price stability and security of supply for Irish homes and businesses.”
