The Government has published the draft South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP), identifying four proposed areas off the south coast for offshore wind projects over the next decade.

South Coast DMAP is Ireland's first ever spatial plan for renewable energy six-week public consultation on draft DMAP now open

An economic analysis, released alongside the preliminary South Coast DMAP, highlights the substantial economic advantages linked with executing the plan. Projections suggest it could bring in €4.4 billion in inward investment and generate an estimated 49,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) years of employment for the Irish economy. Moreover, the analysis shows that over 65 per cent of the anticipated inward investment and employment prospects could be harnessed within the south coast region.

The draft South Coast DMAP is part of a plan-led approach to ensure that offshore renewable energy (ORE) will only be located in areas off the south coast that are environmentally suitable for such development.

Protecting the marine environment and biodiversity and supporting citizens reliant on the sea for their livelihood are central to the sustainable development of the south coast's ORE potential. The selection of the four maritime areas for ORE projects stems from a thorough environmental assessment process and nearly a year of engagement with coastal communities and stakeholders. This extensive process aims to reduce risks associated with the DMAPs to the greatest extent possible.

-- Advertisement --

This draft South Coast DMAP outlines the initiation of an initial offshore wind project, boasting a capacity of around 900MW, set to occur in 'Tonn Nua', situated off the coast of County Waterford, with deployment targeted by 2030. Additionally, it suggests that in the ensuing decade, additional offshore wind projects will be cultivated in the regions of 'Lí Ban', likewise off the coast of County Waterford, and 'Manannán' and 'Danu', both located off the southern coast of County Wexford.

Welcoming the draft South Coast DMAP, Minister Ryan said:

"This is a hugely significant milestone – the first time the State has developed a forward spatial plan for renewable energy at this scale. Since taking office, it has been a priority of mine and this Government’s to overhaul the regulatory and legislative system so that we could get to this point. We can now plan to run an auction, and the winners can then proceed to deal with a brand-new purpose-developed regulator (MARA) before applying to An Bord Pleanála for development permission.

"What is also critical is that at all stages of its development, the draft South Coast DMAP has been informed and shaped by close co-operation with local communities and with consideration for all maritime activities, including fishing and seafood production and environmental protection. Now, I encourage people to engage again over the coming six weeks of further consultation.

"By 2030 and beyond, the development of offshore wind projects in the South Coast DMAP areas will bring enormous economic opportunities for coastal communities, in terms of jobs growth and local community development."