New plan for Moneypoint a lifeline for West Clare
- Offshore wind development project proposed
- Would generate power for up to 1.5m homes
Fianna Fáil TD for Clare Cathal Crowe has welcomed news that a lifeline has been thrown for Moneypoint Power Station in West Clare.
An offshore wind development project is being planned off of the coast of Clare and Kerry under a new public-private partnership between the ESB and Equinor, a Norwegian-based global energy firm.
“I’ve long held the view that offshore wind energy is a strong means by which Moneypoint Power Station’s future can be secured,” said Deputy Crowe.
“I’ve seen first-hand how such developments are much, much less visually obtrusive than onshore wind farms and therefore much less likely to ruffle the feathers of objectors.
“More importantly than that is the fact that offshore wind farms have the potential to generate more electricity at a steadier rate than their onshore counterparts, due to higher and more consistent wind speeds.
“I’ve spent months engaging with the government and with the ESB on this project and I am so thrilled to be able to see its unveiling now.
“Crucially for West Clare is the fact that this will create in the region of 600 jobs and, should planning go through without any obstacles, this really could place Moneypoint and Clare at the centre of Ireland’s offshore wind energy future.
“The project is expected to be carried out in two phase – the first located 16km off of the Clare and Kerry coastline and the second 20km west of the first phase – the final windfarm is likely to cover an area of around 70km squared.
“We all know that coal-burning operations are on the wind-down at Moneypoint and I’ve long made the point that something needs to be looked at as an alternative or it could spell the death knell for West Clare, so I know this news will be so very, very welcome to the people of Kilrush and its surrounding communities.”
