So, what exactly is Wind Energy?
Let’s start at the basics…
Wind is generated by the Sun’s heating of the atmosphere and uneven surfaces of the planet, and the movement of the Earth around the Sun.
We harness this energy using wind turbines. The blades are similar to an airplane wing or helicopter rotor, and maximised to generate kinetic energy as air flows over them. The turbine spins as wind passes over its blades, moving the components of a generator to produce electricity.
The island of Ireland has one of the best wind resources in Europe, particularly off its coasts.
Sources: National Grid, DAERA
What are the benefits?
Wind energy is a renewable resource and abundant across the world.
Wind energy capture is hyper-local meaning communities are able to take back control over their energy production and maintain jobs locally. In addition, individuals can set up wind turbines on their own land.
Wind energy capture is carbon free and wind turbine production’s current carbon footprint can be offset within 6-8 months of operation.
Source: Local Government Association
The problem is
The Irish government’s recent move away from a developer-led approach to offshore wind to a centralised one has meant developers are restricted in the selection of locations for projects. And it is not clear yet what maritime areas the government intends to designate for development.
Wind energy production is most effective in areas where there is significant and continuous wind. So now the developers are limited both in total area they can build, and also in the selection of sites with optimal wind.
Sources: Business Post, Pinsent Masons
On a positive note…
Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Crown Estate have agreed a Statement of Intent to aid in the development of 1GW of offshore wind. That’s enough energy to power approximately one million homes.
A report produced by Renewable NI with KPMG suggests that by 2030 as much as £3.1 billion gross value added (that value produced as income on top of costs) to the economy will be effective from the creation of 2,500 MW of wind energy, 25% of the expected offshore of the DfE and Crown Estate intentions.
In the Republic of Ireland, citizens can have their say on offshore wind through the current public consultation on the policy’s next phase via the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
Sources: Renewable NI, OFGEM, Offshore Wind, Irish Government
What do you think?
Would you switch to a wind energy only supplier?
What would you like to see addressed in the Republic of Ireland offshore renewable energy consultation?