Following a government decision, it has been confirmed that EirGrid Group, which currently operates and plans the electricity grid in Ireland, will be appointed as the transmission system operator (TSO) and the transmission asset owner for offshore grid assets in the Republic of Ireland
Exploiting the wind resources off the coast of Ireland will be necessary if the ambition to reach 70% renewable energy on the electricity system is to be realised by 2030.
If the national climate objective of transitioning to net zero by 2050 becomes law, as provided for in the Climate Change and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2021, a significant amount of the electricity will be required to be generated from offshore renewable sources.
EirGrid chairman Brendan Tuohy said, “EirGrid is pleased the government has put their confidence in us to lead on a matter of such strategic long-term importance for Ireland.”
“EirGrid Group is committed to playing its part in decarbonisation. With Ireland’s significant offshore renewable energy potential, we are honoured to be tasked by government to become the TSO and asset owner offshore. These will be essential elements to enable decarbonisation and EirGrid is fully committed to delivering on what is required.”
EirGrid chief executive Mark Foley said, “This is a significant development for the energy industry. Offshore wind is a long-term strategic opportunity for Ireland. It time, it may enable Ireland to become a major exporter of renewable energy.”
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