Irish energy company ESB and the Port of Cork Company have signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to work together to progress plans for Ireland’s offshore wind and green hydrogen development.
The Port of Cork’s masterplan outlines proposals to develop the necessary infrastructure to facilitate and support the offshore renewable-energy and green-hydrogen sectors.
It views Cork as being a key enabler of the green energy sector in Ireland by taking advantage of its natural harbour, deep-water channels, and deep-water berths, and by reclaiming land to accommodate large project cargoes for the offshore wind and green hydrogen sectors.
ESB’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy identifies collaboration with key partners, such as the Port of Cork, as playing a critical role as the company progresses its development of renewable energy in Ireland.
This partnership also supports the Government’s Climate Action Plan and its ambition to increase the proportion of renewable electricity up to 80% by 2030 and a target of at least 5GW of offshore wind energy by 2030.
Ireland’s offshore wind energy potential is significant, with a maritime area more than seven times the size of its landmass, ideal wind conditions, and strategic location on the Atlantic Ocean’s edge.
