Wind Energy Ireland Chief Executive Officer Noel Cunniffe has officially launched the Offshore Wind Action Plan 2026.

Speaking on RTÉ Radio One's Morning Ireland programme, he discussed both the significant potential of offshore wind energy for the country and the critical hurdles that must be resolved to successfully deliver large-scale offshore renewable power to Ireland.

The newly released plan highlights 18 specific actions that need to be achieved over the coming 12 months. The core priorities outlined in the document include:

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• An Coimisiún Pleanála must be supported to deliver on its commitment to offshore wind planning decision timelines – including getting the first decision out in September;

• The CRU, EirGrid and industry must finalise all grid agreements and specifications for the existing east-coast projects so they can connect to the grid;

• Clarity is needed on Ireland's future offshore wind pipeline, which sites will be available to progress and when;

• The Government must publish the National Ports Policy and, where a strong and credible business case is made, facilitate State investment in ports so they can build Irish offshore wind farms;

• Government should advance plans for coastal Green Energy Parks which use offshore wind energy to attract new industries and create jobs.