Frequently asked questions
about the initiative

The Joint Venture between BnM and Ocean Winds, established in 2022, combines Ocean Winds’ expertise in offshore wind energy with BnM extensive experience developing renewable energy projects in Ireland. This partnership aims to accelerate the development of offshore wind energy in Ireland, supporting the country’s climate targets for 2030. Together, they create a strong platform for developing new projects, integrating Ocean Winds’ global experience in offshore wind with BnM commitment to working closely with local communities and ensuring their active participation in the transition to renewable energy.

Ocean Winds (OW) is an international offshore wind energy company created as a 50/50 joint venture between EDP Renewables and ENGIE. Founded on the belief that offshore wind is a key driver of the global energy transition, the company develops, finances, builds, and operates offshore wind farms worldwide.

Headquartered in Madrid, Ocean Winds continues to expand its global offshore wind portfolio in both bottom fixed and floating technology, as a leading offshore wind player.

BnM is an Irish semi-state company focused on climate solutions, including renewable energy, recycling, waste management, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation. BnM has been supporting Ireland’s energy security since 1946 and is supporting the transition to a climate-neutral future. The company manages over 80,000 hectares of land and is committed to sustainable development and providing Ireland with energy solutions while continuing to serve local communities around the country.

Ireland’s maritime area is around seven times the size of its landmass, making it an ideal location for offshore wind energy development. With strong, consistent winds, offshore wind offers a major opportunity to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. The Joint Venture is focused on harnessing this resource to help Ireland meet its goal of generating 7 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, while also supporting the creation of a national sustainable industry

A comprehensive programme of public consultation, alongside a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), will be carried out during the development phase of any offshore wind project, before construction begins. This process ensures that potential impacts on marine and terrestrial biodiversity are identified and effectively avoided, minimized, or mitigated. The EIA will form a key part of a robust planning application, which will be reviewed by the relevant planning authority prior to any construction taking place.

Ocean Winds applies industry-leading environmental practices, including the use of bubble curtains during construction to reduce underwater noise and limit disturbance to marine life. In addition, long-term environmental monitoring is implemented to track impacts and adapt mitigation measures throughout the project lifecycle.

BnM brings extensive experience in renewable energy development in Ireland and is recognized for its strong approach to public consultation and community engagement. Together, both companies will work closely with local communities, ensuring transparency and responsiveness to any concerns.

A community benefit fund will also be established for any offshore wind project, supporting local initiatives and ensuring that the wind farm contributes positively to the region’s socio-economic development.

Ireland aims to generate 7 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 as part of its strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy. The Joint Venture will play a crucial role to reach this goal, by providing a clean, renewable source of energy that helps meet both short-term and long-term sustainability objectives.

The Joint Venture is committed to involving local communities at every stage of the project. Public consultations will be held to gather input, and the Joint Venture will collaborate with local representatives to ensure that community needs and concerns are addressed. Local workers and suppliers will be prioritized wherever possible, contributing to economic growth in the regions near the wind farms.

Key challenges include limited port capacity and the need to upgrade the national electrical grid to accommodate the additional power from offshore wind. The Joint Venture is working closely with the Irish Government and key stakeholders to ensure that port facilities are improved and that the grid can handle the increased capacity.