French energy giant EDF entered the Irish offshore wind sector by taking a 50% share in a 1GW project off the coast of Dublin.
EDF Renewables will advance the Codling Project 13km off County Wicklow with Norway’s Fred Olsen Renewables, which already had a half share.
EDF bought its stake in the part-consented project for an undisclosed sum from local developer Hazel Shore. No timescale is given for its development.
The French group, which is already active in offshore wind in its home market, the UK and elsewhere, said Ireland “has strong commitments to renewables and we are keen to support Ireland’s energy and climate ambitions”.
Offshore wind is expected to contribute at least 3.5GW as Ireland chases a new goal of a 70% renewable power supply by 2030, said EDF.
Ireland is expected to stage its first renewable energy auction in June this year. Although the first round is likely to be dominated by onshore wind projects, the country's expanding offshore portfolio will be a strong contender in future years.
The Irish offshore sector has already attracted the interest of Norway's Equinor, which partnered with local utility ESB, and Belgian developer Parkwind.
