Government gives go-ahead for first offshore wind auction

The offshore auction is the first in Ireland's history. Picture: Ben Birchall/PA Wire

The Government has approved the terms and conditions for its first auction for offshore wind with expectations it will provide for up to 2.5GW — enough to power 2.5m Irish homes — of “clean electricity”.

Environment Minister Eamon Ryan received approval from Cabinet to press ahead with plans under the offshore renewable electricity support scheme (Oress 1).