Ireland

Mainstream’s team, as part of its Airtricity heritage, developed Ireland’s first and only operational offshore wind farm at the Arklow Bank, Co. Wicklow. The Arklow Bank wind farm became operational in 2004 and was the world’s first erection of wind turbines rated over 3 MW.

Presently, Mainstream are progressing stakeholder engagement and Foreshore Investigative Licence Applications for marine site surveys within three search areas currently under investigation by the offshore team for offshore wind farm development (sites and cable routes). Stage 1: Screening for Appropriate Assessment and Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment (NIS) has been undertaken in support of the foreshore licence applications for all three sites covering the entire search area located within and outside of 12 nautical miles. Mainstream have engaged with DECC on site investigations for areas outside of 12nm.

Mainstream is also in discussions with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) and has completed pre-application statutory consultation (for all three sites). Applications have been sent to the DHLGH and we are awaiting a pre-application meeting.

Historically, Mainstream delivered three onshore wind plant into commercial operation in Ireland.  The Carrickenny wind plant in north-west Ireland, County Leitrim, was sold to the furniture giant, IKEA when it reached commercial operation.