Wind Energy

Wind is currently the world's fastest growing renewable energy source.

With the falling costs of wind energy high growth is expected to continue. At present* there are 124 wind farms and approximately 1,153 turbines on-line and operational, in 22 counties on the island of Ireland.

• Ireland’s total capacity is 1570.10MW.
• This is generated from 124 wind farms in 23 counties.

The counties in Ireland’s Western region currently generate 451.43MW which is 29% of Ireland’s total capacity:

Off-shore wind has shown economic viability in other countries around the world. Off-shore wind farms are present off the shores of numerous countries including Denmark, the United Kingdom and most recently off the east coast of Ireland. The Arklow bank project (Phase 1) is a 25 MW partnership venture between Airtricity and GE Energy.

Wind speeds tend to be much higher at sea, however there are higher capital costs associated with off-shore wind farms.
 
IWEA is the national association for the wind industry in Ireland with the primary role primary of promoting the use of wind power.

*Figures correct as on 03/01/10

Links:

• Irish Wind Energy Association http://www.iwea.com
• Wind Map of Ireland by County http://www.iwea.com/index.cfm/page/windfarmsinireland
• Airtricity www.airtricity.com
• GE Energy Arklow Bank Offshore Wind Project http://www.gepower.com/businesses/ge_wind_energy/en/image_gallery/arklow.htm