A chara, – Bill Emmott’s article “Ireland’s failure to investigate floating wind farms is shameful” (Opinion & Analysis, November 26th) rightly calls out Ireland’s hesitancy in embracing floating wind technology; a shortcoming that risks both environmental and economic consequences.
This failure is particularly evident considering our insistent focus on outdated nearshore bottom-fixed turbines; a choice that threatens nearshore biodiverse habitats while squandering an opportunity to lead in innovative offshore energy solutions.
The reliance on nearshore projects, such as those planned on Ireland’s east, west and south coasts, disregards the proven readiness of floating turbines.
These alternatives are already under development in Scotland and Portugal where they are located in deeper waters far from seabird foraging areas, ecologically sensitive coastal zones and fish spawning grounds. It is baffling that while others forge ahead, Ireland clings to nearshore fixed turbines, which threaten not only ecosystems, but also the visual and cultural landscapes cherished by coastal communities and vital to our tourism economy.
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A lack of proper strategic environmental assessment on our offshore renewable energy plans has highlighted the urgent need for a robust analysis of alternatives while taking environmental impacts and visual intrusion into account. Ireland’s failure to integrate floating wind into its offshore strategic plans has been a glaring oversight, with some nearshore projects proposed less than 6km from the coast, contrary to current international development trends.
Meanwhile, floating technology offers a clear path forward, with commercial viability projected by industry to rival fixed turbines by 2035.
While countries such as Norway, France, Spain and Italy are investing in port infrastructure and workforce development for floating wind, Ireland risks losing out on these economic opportunities to our nearest neighbours: England, Scotland and Wales.
This narrow, near-term focus undermines our climate goals and exposes the government’s lack of ambition. A true plan-led approach must move beyond getting anything into the water in order to satisfy short-term targets. Instead we must embrace innovative solutions which protect biodiversity and seascapes and contribute toward our energy independence.
The Greenvolt floating project in Scotland exemplifies what is possible with vision and investment – goals Ireland should have led on but now lags at least five years behind.
Ireland’s coastline, its “frontyard”, is a national treasure that must be protected. By prioritising floating wind, we can achieve our renewable energy targets without compromising biodiversity or heritage. Our new government must act decisively or, as a nation, we will pay dearly for this lack of foresight. – Is mise,
Dr MICHAEL O’MEARA,
Fenor,
Co Waterford.