Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013
66. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department has received submissions on the proposed wind farm in Dublin Bay; and his views on whether Dublin Bay is a sustainable location for wind generation. [26636/13]
View answerThe development and operation of wind farms in Ireland require planning permission from the relevant planning authority and, in the case of offshore wind farms, a foreshore lease from the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. They also require an Authorisation to Construct a Generating Station and a Licence to Generate from the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). In addition, a grid connection offer from EirGrid or ESB Networks is required to become operational.
The issue of planning and foreshore leasing are in the first instance matters between the developer of the windfarm and the planning authority subject to the Planning and Foreshore Acts, which include requirements for public consultation. I understand the developer of a proposed project for the Dublin Bay area is currently consulting the public on the proposal.
The consideration by the relevant planning authority of individual applications for approval for the building of energy infrastructure is also informed by strategic energy policy objectives. To that end my Department is currently finalising an Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan.
This plan takes as its starting point the findings of a Strategic Environmental Assessment carried out to establish the capacity of Ireland’s offshore to accommodate renewable energy development without significant adverse impact on the marine environment. This SEA has been supplemented by an additional Natura Impact Statement to take account of the new Special Areas of Conservation designated in 2012.
In addition, individual offshore renewable projects will also be required to produce an Environmental Impact Assessment to ensure they are environmentally sustainable.
