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A Review of Irish Ports Renewable Energy Services 2018
Offshore Renewable Eolic Energy

The offshore renewable energy (ORE) sector in Europe has tripled since 2012, driven by offshore wind investments exceeding €22 billion and a growing focus on cost reduction and innovation. Despite having some of the largest offshore renewable resources in Europe, Ireland's development remains limited, with only one offshore wind project to date. However, new policies like the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS) are encouraging investment, with projections of 1,500MW to 5,200MW of ORE capacity by 2030, primarily offshore wind. Belfast Harbour has emerged as a key offshore wind hub, demonstrating the infrastructure needed to support large-scale projects. If Ireland’s ORE sector expands rapidly, similar port facilities will be essential. Ireland’s Tier 1 ports—Dublin, Cork, and Shannon Foynes—have already invested over €370 million and identified ORE as a strategic growth area, positioning them to support future development through infrastructure and policy advancements.