The data release follows the Oireachtas’ approval of the state’s first offshore renewable energy spatial plan. Credit: fokke baarssen / Shutterstock.

The Irish government’s Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications has released critical geophysical data for the country’s upcoming second offshore wind auction.

The data release follows increasing momentum in the offshore wind sector. The Irish government recently approved the agreed terms for the state’s second offshore wind auction, ORESS Tonn Nua.

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The bidding process will take place in early 2025, and the geophysical datasets assist prospective participants in their bid preparations. The auction is expected to procure 900MW of clean energy from a site offshore County Waterford.

The terms and conditions for the Tonn Nua auction were finalised on 30 October 2024.

The data release follows approval by the Oireachtas [national parliament] of the state’s first spatial plan for offshore renewable energy development – the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC DMAP).

Tonn Nua will be the inaugural offshore renewable energy auction to be conducted within a designated plan.

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The SC DMAP outlines four southern areas for offshore renewable energy development up to 2034, along the coasts of Cork, Waterford and Wexford.

This strategic approach provides offshore renewables developers with greater certainty by aligning future wind farm developments with maritime spatial plans sanctioned by the government and approved by the Oireachtas.

It ensures the protection of the marine environment and supports the livelihoods of citizens dependent on the sea.

Ireland’s Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan stated: “The recent announcements on our next offshore wind auction, including the release of this geophysical data, is a strong signal that government is determined to deliver our very ambitious offshore renewable energy targets.”

Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2024 aims to achieve 5GW of installed offshore wind capacity by 2030.

An additional 2GW is allocated for the production of green hydrogen and other non-grid uses.