Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2026
214. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the independent analysis being undertaken in relation to the repowering and lifetime extension of Ireland's existing onshore wind farms; the current status of this work; and when he expects the analysis to be completed. [68381/26]
View answerRepowering of existing wind farms has the potential to deliver an increase in energy generation, usually by replacing older, less efficient turbines with newer models with higher capacities, with limited additional environmental impact. Extension of lifetime of existing windfarms also has a key role to play in ensuring a secure, renewable electricity supply.
My Department engaged consultants to conduct an independent analysis on the repowering and life extension of Ireland’s current installed onshore wind energy projects. This analysis is currently being considered and will help to inform future policy requirements.
On foot of this analysis, a strengthened framework for repowering has been included in the Terms and Conditions of the upcoming RESS 6 auction published in July which provides strong incentives to efficiently repower existing wind farms and to align with the Renewable Energy Directive, as well as broader energy security, affordability and infrastructure objectives.
Through the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce, my Department is also working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and other stakeholders on a range of planning policy measures to support renewables, including repowering and life extension of existing renewable electricity projects.
