Green power projects for NI

Published Thursday, 15 December 2011

Two major green energy projects are to be created off the coasts of Antrim and Down.

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One of the schemes off Rathlin Island and Torr Head will harness tidal power, while the other will use wind power off the south east coast of Co Down.

Together the two schemes could generate up to 800MW of electricity for the local energy market.

The Crown Estate, which manages most of the UK's seabed, is seeking investors and developers to drive the schemes forward.

The Executive hopes the projects will increase renewable energy generation in the region by 40% by 2020.

Energy Minister Arlene Foster said: "The interest to date in Northern Ireland waters is very encouraging and this announcement by The Crown Estate presents the offshore wind and tidal sectors with an excellent opportunity."

"Northern Ireland offers a strong but accessible offshore resource, world class research facilities at our Universities, a strong engineering tradition and an excellent port infrastructure."

Rob Hastings, The Crown Estate's Marine Director said: The energy infrastructure projects to be delivered will not only reap significant economic benefits for Northern Ireland, but will also further diversify the energy supply away from industrial sources to low carbon renewable energy."

Comments

2 Comments

Anon in Newcastle wrote (156 days ago):

This is outrageous! Why is no one raising objections to this disgraceful plan to ruin the beautiful County Down coastline? What right does the Royal Family have to spoil our scenery with ugly wind farms? Are you seriously telling me that no one is concerned about this? Is dumping weapons in Beaufort's Dyke and then dumping the world's radioactive waste in the Irish Sea not enough? They are now planning on dumping wind farms on us! I think they take us for mugs. Last month the Duke of Edinburgh was giving out about how he detested wind farms while the Royals give permission for them to be put on our coastline, spoiling our scenery, in order to meet the Britain's clean energy targets. It is an utter disgrace. If you think we will benefit from this, think again, electricity generated will be wired back to Britain.

Kev in Belfast wrote (157 days ago):

So what is the prospects of local people being included on the work force ? Be interesting to hear how and where to apply for jobs ???