Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 November 2021
65. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the renewable energy support scheme will be extended to include offshore wind projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53510/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is currently developing terms and conditions for offshore wind-specific auctions under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). Owing to the specific scale and nature of typical offshore wind farms, dedicated auctions are initially required to support the longer-term potential of this technology in Ireland.
A number of milestones are required before the launch of the first offshore wind auction (ORESS 1) namely the enactment of the Maritime Area Planning (MAP) Bill together with the commencement of subsequent enabling secondary legislation. The Bill is currently in Committee stage in the Oireachtas. This will enable the establishment of the Maritime Area Consent (MAC) process for the first phase of projects which can then proceed to enter the full planning process with An Bord Pleanala.
A public consultation on the draft terms and conditions for ORESS 1 auctions is now underway. The closing date for submissions is 6 December.
