The Wind That Shakes the Turbines: Analysis of Irish Energy Production and Sovereignty

Abstract

Ireland’s answer to transitioning, greening and securing energy production is essentially to develop offshore wind, thereby leveraging its large maritime territory. Ireland supplies and runs an all-island grid, and has export potential to other EU countries by means of interconnectors. This article argues that energy transition is an opportunity for Ireland to rank as a key energy supplier and technological leader for offshore wind. Reaching these positions requires a range of political and industrial measures to achieve strategic management of Irish waters. The Irish government, together with the national electricity company, the Electricity Supply Board, is now rolling out a roadmap of programmes and investments to dramatically increase offshore wind share in the national energy mix by 2030. A very clear governmental transition strategy, the recent launch of several infrastructure construction works and significant financial firepower, combined with strong EU support, give confidence that Ireland can deliver on its objectives.