Rosslare Europort enters ‘strategic partnership’ with Bord na Móna Ocean Winds as wind energy plans accelerate
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[Source: Simon Burke | Irish Independent]
Rosslare Europort has entered into a “strategic partnership” with Bord na Móna as it continues efforts to develop the port as a key hub for the development of offshore wind projects in Irish waters. The partnership, which has seen Bord na Móna and offshore wind energy company Ocean Winds sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the port authority, “underscores the commitment of all parties to accelerate Ireland's offshore wind energy ambitions” and seeks to “leverage the potential of Rosslare Europort as it accelerates its wind energy ambitions”.
In 2022, Rosslare Europort management announced plans to establish the port, its hinterland and the south-east region as Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub, with the potential to create up to 2,000 jobs. To deliver its vision for ORE, the Europort plans to develop a purpose-built quay and berth, quayside storage and pre-construction up to 50 acres in area, a management control centre and management offices, and facilities for operations and maintenance.
Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for International and Road Transport and Logistics, Jack Chambers T.D. said, “Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) is integral to meeting Ireland’s climate change ambitions with a target of achieving 7GW of offshore energy by 2030, 2GW of which is dedicated to the production of green hydrogen.
“This agreement between Rosslare Europort and Ocean Wind Bord na Móna is a welcome one, as it demonstrates the level of commitment and collaboration to delivering on Ireland’s ORE ambitions by all involved.”
Dan Finch, Strategic Oversight Director Officer & Country Manager for Ireland & Poland, Ocean Winds, commented, "We are pleased to partner with Rosslare Europort to advance Ireland's offshore wind energy ambitions. This MoU represents a significant step towards creating the necessary infrastructure to support large-scale renewable energy projects, which are vital for achieving our national climate goals.”
John Reilly, Head of Renewable Energy, Bord na Móna, said, “We believe that Rosslare Europort’s strategic location and capabilities make it an ideal hub for offshore wind projects, and we look forward to working together to realise this potential."
Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann, Port Authority Rosslare Europort stated, "Rosslare Europort is excited to work with Bord na Móna and Ocean Winds, who share our vision for the development of offshore wind energy off the coast of Ireland. We believe there are strong synergies to be achieved as we work together to place this renewable energy industry at the heart of Ireland’s decarbonised future”.
“The collaboration will focus on developing port and harbour facilities that are essential for the construction, operation, and maintenance of offshore wind farms. It aims to position Rosslare Europort as a critical infrastructure asset in Ireland's renewable energy landscape, foster local industry growth and provide employment within the local area. This initiative also aligns with Ireland's broader goals of transitioning to a sustainable energy future and reducing carbon emissions.”