Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 September 2026
32. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the input his Department has had into the development of wind energy development guidelines as initiated by the Department for Housing; Local Government and Heritage. [64891/26]
View answerMy Department has being working in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, who have responsibility for planning matters, 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. The National Planning Statement on Wind Energy will address key matters including noise, setback distance, shadow flicker, community obligation, community dividend and grid connections.
In collaboration with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, my Department has also been working to advance guidance on the noise aspect which is highly technical in nature. The two Departments have been engaging on proposals regarding the measurement and assessment of noise from wind turbines to ensure they are robust and fit for purpose to support our target of meeting 80% of our electricity demand from renewable sources.
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.
