NOW Ireland � The National Offshore Wind Energy Association
of Ireland - has welcomed the commissioning of a study to
test the feasibility of a new electricity interconnection
between Ireland and Scotland (Click
Here).
NOW Ireland stated that the linking of systems allows for
the smoothing of energy supply and saves considerable money
on peaking plant, while allowing Ireland to export renewable
energy in large quantities to the UK and, potentially, further
afield.
The group said that such an interconnection would be another
big step to unlocking the potential of offshore wind, marine
and tidal energy - of which Ireland has some of the world's
best resources.
"Since its formation in 2007, NOW Ireland has vigorously
lobbied Minister Ryan on the issue of interconnection. We
believe that it is critical to solving our long-term dependence
on imported oil and gas. Interconnection allows Ireland to
fully utilise our natural resources and to massively increase
our energy security in the process" - the group said.
NOW Ireland has estimated the short-term generating potential
of offshore wind energy to be in excess of 2000MW from existing
license areas in Irish waters. Long-term, the potential is
far greater and there is a real potential for Ireland to be
a major force in European energy production.
For more information on NOW Ireland - Click
Here
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