Codling Wind Park, Ireland’s largest Phase 11 offshore renewable energy project, is set to submit its planning application to An Bord Pleanála in September 2024. The application marks a significant milestone for Ireland’s offshore renewable sector and national climate policy. The project, a 50/50 joint venture between Fred. Olsen Seawind and EDF Renewables, will have a capacity of up to 1,300 MW, supplying clean energy to over one million Irish homes.

Located 13-22 km off the Wicklow coast, Codling Wind Park will connect to the Irish grid at Poolbeg in Dublin. It will help reduce energy generation emissions and displace over 1.7 million tonnes of carbon annually, accounting for over a quarter of Ireland’s 2030 offshore energy target.

Codling Wind Park schematic

Energy independence

Project Director of Codling Wind Park, Scott Sutherland said the application was the product of over fifteen years of data gathering and site investigations, both onshore and offshore, which included geophysical, aerial and vessel-based surveys.

“This is a big moment for climate action, for Irish energy independence and for the local communities who will share in the benefits of the project. This is one of the largest energy infrastructure investments ever seen in Ireland and a tremendously exciting project to work on. We are very confident in our application which is informed by detailed surveys, studies and assessments of the local environment and consultation with stakeholders, which aligns with the highest Irish and international standards of environmental assessment and planning.”

“The project that is being put forward for planning strikes the right balance between environmental considerations and technical feasibility, as well as different environmental constraints. The application takes a conservative and comprehensive account of a broad range of considerations including the local seabed and tidal conditions, visual landscapes and seascapes, geology, archaeology, marine life, ornithology and protected sites.”

Community engagement and just prospects

Codling Wind Park plans to begin construction by 2026-27, subject to planning approval, with power generation expected by 2030. The project is anticipated to create over 1,000 jobs during construction and 75 long-term maintenance roles. The project has completed a third series of community exhibitions, engaging with local people and elected representatives, while providing news and information on the project. The engagement programme included events, exhibitions and dedicated information clinics across a two-month period earlier in the summer in Wicklow, Greystones and Sandymount.

Earlier this year, Codling Wind Park reduced the required number of turbines by 25%, now capped at 75 due to advances in technology and public consultation. The project also established a €200m Community Benefit Fund to support local initiatives, which will become available after construction begins.

Read the full press release here

The full application will be available online at www.codlingwindparkplanningapplication.ie