FAQ
Tonn Nua is a 900MW fixed offshore wind project planned delivery off the coast of Co. Waterford.
Ireland is surrounded by some of Europe’s strongest and most consistent offshore wind, giving the country enormous potential to generate clean, renewable energy at scale. It reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels and helps secure a stable, domestic energy supply.
Winds are stronger and more consistent offshore than in a comparable onshore wind project. There is greater potential to install larger turbines at sea relative to onshore. The combination of high wind speeds and larger turbines allows for more energy generation. Not only will an offshore wind farm generate more energy, but it will also generate energy on a more consistent basis. This makes it easier for the grid operator to integrate this renewable electricity source.
The Tonn Nua site was selected through Ireland’s first plan-led offshore wind regime, namely the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC-DMAP). Under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, Ireland’s first statutory special plan for offshore renewable energy (ORE) was developed. The SC-DMAP identified four offshore sites which are suitable for offshore renewable energy, with Tonn Nua being the first of these sites.