Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
141. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the action he is taking to address public concerns regarding onshore wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27231/26]
View answerEnergy from wind and solar is currently supplying our homes and businesses with sustainable, indigenous power, protecting our economy, and helping us build a more stable and secure energy future. Onshore wind is the bedrock to our transition to a renewables led energy system supplying Ireland’s homes and businesses, supplying 40% of our electricity in March.
While nearly 57% of the national target for onshore wind of 9 GW has been energised to date, a strong pipeline of projects is being brought forward through the planning, grid connection and consenting processes which will need the support of local communities.
Onshore wind and solar is supporting investment and employment in local economies and Community Benefit Funds under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme are being rolled out to support sustainable community initiatives.
Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the first revision of the National Planning Framework published in April 2025. These allocations will be planned for and integrated into Regional Renewable Energy Strategies, forming part of the assemblies revised Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies. As part of these strategies, the Regional Assemblies will identify sub-allocations for each of their local authorities.
These local authority level allocations will in turn be planned for through the city and county development plans, ultimately leading to the identification and designation, by Local Authorities, of suitable areas where onshore wind and solar energy development will be directed towards.
My Department has being working in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a review of the 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines, which will inform a new National Planning Statement on Wind Energy under the new Planning and Development Act 2024.
