North Channel Wind, the company proposing to install floating wind turbines in the Irish Sea, welcomes the establishment of Great British Energy which it describes as a pivotal moment in the Northern Ireland’s journey towards a sustainable and secure energy future.  

North Channel Wind director Niamh Kenny says the newly formed state-owned energy company marks a significant milestone in Northern Ireland’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and enhancing energy independence. 

“Our plan is to install up to 1GW of renewable capacity through the next generation of floating wind turbines, positioned off the east coast of Co. Antrim,” says Ms Kenny.   

North Channel Wind says benefits from the significant planned investments in renewable energy and decarbonisation must prioritise Northern Ireland.

“Stormont can now ensure NI benefits from the GB Energy investment plans which will be worth £8.3bn over five years. NI should also be aiming for its share of the further £7.3bn committed to decarbonise heavy industry through the UK Infrastructure Bank,” she says. 

“Other priorities include securing The Crown Estate leasing agreements for the seabed in the Irish Sea within the next two years and properly resourcing DAERA, DfE and DfI so as to reach decisions on permits and planning in good time, otherwise deadlines currently set for 80% renewables in Northern Ireland by 2030 will slip.”  

North Channel Wind has made good progress so far in terms of consulting with coastal communities and the fishing sector and expects the completion of its two-year bird and mammal surveys in September. 

“With a potential installed capacity of 1GW, North Channel Wind could generate clean, renewable electricity equivalent to the needs of more than half of Northern Ireland’s homes and businesses” she says.  

Benefits of the North Channel Wind project include economic growth through supply chain support, hundreds of new jobs in the renewable energy sector, from engineering and construction to operations and maintenance, significant reduction of GB’s and Northern Ireland’s carbon footprint and enhanced energy independence and resilience.