Ireland launches National Offshore Renewable Energy Plan

Ireland’s Ministery for Climate, Environment, and Energy has launched the National Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) as part of the country’s efforts to reach at least 5 GW of offshore wind capacity and 80% renewable electricity by 2030.

The DMAP aims to support Ireland’s decarbonisation goals and will contribute to the nation’s offshore wind target of 20 GW by 2040. The plan will be completed by the end of 2027 and is designed to ensure sustainable development in Ireland’s maritime areas. The development of this national plan follows the success of the South Coast ORE DMAP, approved in October 2024.

The DMAP will be managed by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, with input from various government departments and experts. The preparation is already underway, with the statutory process set to begin soon. The development of offshore wind, including floating technologies, is expected to offer significant economic opportunities for coastal communities.