Bord Gáis Energy and Corio Generation have agreed a new deal to explore opportunities to supply the country’s electricity market with green electricity from offshore wind.
Today’s agreement marks Bord Gáis Energy’s entry into the offshore wind arena and will play an important role in its ongoing commitment to expand its renewable energy portfolio.
Corio, a global offshore wind developer with a global pipeline of over 30 GW, is currently developing the 450 MW Sceirde Rocks wind farm off the west coast of Ireland. It is a portfolio company of Macquarie Asset Management.
The Government has set a goal of generating 80% of electricity through renewables by 2030, including 5 GW from offshore wind.
The companies said today the new partnership aligns with the Government’s strategy to develop Ireland’s significant offshore wind resource.
This will contribute to Ireland’s climate action targets and maximise the economic impact of future renewable energy use, while also contributing to security of supply and delivering balanced regional economic development, they added.
Dave Kirwan, Managing Director of Bord Gáis Energy, said the company believes all energy can be green energy and that this can also improve Ireland’s energy security.
“This significant partnership with Corio will combine our power generation and route to market expertise, the financial backing of Centrica, and Corio Generation’s global experience in the development of offshore wind projects,” Mr Kirwan said.
“For Bord Gáis Energy, today’s announcement is part of our wider strategic objective to energise a greener, fairer future in Ireland, offering end-to-end green energy solutions required for the transition to net zero,” he added.
Jonathan Cole, CEO of Corio Generation, said that with its extensive coastline, abundant natural resources, and a clear and ambitious government strategy, Ireland is exceptionally well-placed to expand its offshore wind capabilities and enjoy the many benefits this could bring, from greener and more reliable energy to widespread economic investment and community gain.
“By combining Corio’s significant development expertise and Bord Gais’ outstanding track record as a market leader in Ireland’s energy sector, we have established a partnership that is ready to play a major role in Ireland’s energy transition,” he added.
Source: rte.ie #WeGetPeople