GDG Welcomes Offshore Wind Industrial Strategy

GDG welcomes the government’s release of the ‘Powering Prosperity—Ireland’s Offshore Wind Industrial Strategy.’ This forward-thinking initiative provides a solid basis for sustainable transformation, not just in clean energy production but also in industrial growth and job creation.

It was positive to see the Governments industrial strategy highlight, through a case study, the significant work being done by the Venterra T&I team in the conceptual development of an innovative floating wind anchoring system which has the potential to significantly reduce development time and costs for floating offshore wind farms which may be used off Irelands West coast. The IDA’s backing has been instrumental for GDG, enabling initial feasibility assessments, planning for concept designs, and scoping for future testing and pilot programs ahead of potential market introduction.

GDG’s commitment to investing in and supporting the development of the Irish supply chain is bolstered by such support from state agencies like the IDA.

By aiming to harness one of the world’s best offshore renewable energy resources, homegrown expertise like GDG look forward to supporting Ireland in meeting and leading the world in renewable energy planning and implementation. With a strong and consistent wind supply, our seas are our untapped strength, ready to power our future energy needs, achieve our climate targets and drive massive economic growth.

Special recognition goes to the plans for nurturing the Irish supply chain—a game-changer for developing innovation in small businesses all over the country. The possibility of an Offshore Wind Centre of Excellence and a Floating Offshore Wind Demonstrator site in Irish waters promises real progress and untapped potential for promoting Ireland’s expertise on the international stage.

As we plan for a 37GW ORE capacity target by 2050, let’s acknowledge the vision of our government departments leading the charge: the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.