Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
86. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is aware of the recent EPA-funded Noise Annoyance Mapping study on wind turbine noise (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32404/26]
View answerMy responsibilities, as Minister, on environmental noise is limited to those sources that are contained in the EU Environmental Noise Directive. This Directive does not extend to noise generated by wind turbines. As such, wind turbine noise from operational wind farms does not fall under my remit.
Wind energy is bolstering Ireland's energy security and helping reduce our exposure to imported fossil fuel. Recently published data from EirGrid shows that onshore wind accounted for 33% of our electricity fuel mix in 2025. We are currently have over 8 gigawatts of renewable generation capacity with onshore wind as the largest contributor to this, at over 5 gigawatts.
Guidance regarding wind turbine noise in Ireland is provided for in the planning system. The Wind Energy Development Guidelines sets out the conditions which should be applied to planning permissions to protect nearby noise sensitive locations.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently undertaking a review of the existing guidelines as part of the development of a National Planning Statement on Wind Energy under the Planning and Development Act 2024. This review is taking place in coordination with my Department and will address key aspects including noise, setback distance, shadow flicker, community obligation community dividend and grid connections.
I am advised that the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage will undertake a public consultation on the draft National Planning Statement, whereby all interested parties will have an opportunity to submit observations on the draft before its finalisation.
Pending the finalisation of the National Planning Statement, the current 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines remain in force.
