Over 2,000 megawatts of electricity could be generated by the development of offshore wind farms in Ireland, with a saving of €236m every year in carbon offset costs.

This is according to the National Wind Association of Ireland, who supports the view that Ireland has some of the best wind resources in the world. This is attributed to higher, more constant wind speeds and the larger turbines, which can be used offshore.

Offshore wind farms can generate up to 45% more energy than its onshore equivalent.

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Today the the Dail Committee on Climate Change and Energy Security is to hear from a group which represents the major wind farmers in Ireland.

The five leading operators suggest they have the capacity to deliver 40% of current national energy generating requirement, creating the capability to power almost 1.5m homes in Ireland.

The wind farmers have also put forward the notion that renewable energies was not limited to merely energy generation. They claim that Ireland could become a world leader in developing the technology used in producing renewable energy.

The development of this market has already generated profits of €4bn, and created 80,000 jobs, in Germany. According to the wind group, Ireland has the potential to style itself as the 'Green Energy Centre for Europe'.

(PR)