Expansion in onshore and offshore wind on the cards as Ireland publishes new climate policy

The Irish government has committed to a plan to add 12GW of new renewables capacity by 2030, almost tripling an existing 4.5GW target.

Dublin has published a new climate action plan that confirms a new 70% green electricity goal for the country.

The move will see the shutting down of existing peat and coal plants and an opening up of community participation in new renewables projects.

A streamlined consenting and connection system will also be introduced for both onshore and offshore wind, according to the ‘Giving Ireland a Sustainable Future’ document.

The action plan, which deals with several other areas of the economy including agriculture and transport, sets Ireland on a path to net zero emissions by 2030.

Energy minister Richard Bruton (pictured) said: “Every generation wants to leave the world in a better place than they found it for their children. We have a short window of opportunity to act. We must act now and leave a better, healthier, more sustainable Ireland for future generations. This Plan provides our way forward.”

He added: “This is a life changing journey and it is a rapid, transformative adjustment that is required. Nothing less will do. We must all now take up the challenge.”

The plan will be annually updated, with actions reported on quarterly.