Wave energy project moves a step closer to fruition

A wave energy project in the waters off the west Clare coast has moved a step closer.

CWE Ireland has lodged a foreshore licence with the Department of the Environment to investigate the feasibility of establishing a five-megawatt wave energy project off Spanish Point, near Miltown Malbay.

The firm has chosen the 8.8sq km site after investigating potential locations for developing a wave energy site off Ireland over the past two years.

The cost of the study into a 5MW demonstration project totalled €150,000 and it was 50% funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Kieran O’Brien of CWE Ireland said the wave potential off Clare is “one of the best in the world”.

The Australian-owned firm hopes to commence tests works next Spring at the site which is adjacent to the shore and extends 3km offshore.

Spanish Point beach is a popular surf spot and the firm’s application states the works will not have any impact on water sport activities at the beach.

The public has until Sep 3 to make submissions.