Why Port of Waterford’s Bold Move Could Ignite a Game-Changing Offshore Wind Revolution You Didn’t See Coming

Ever wondered how Ireland’s oldest port could pivot from centuries-old maritime roots to becoming the beating heart of offshore renewable energy? Well, Port of Waterford is throwing its hat into the sustainable energy ring with a bold step — a direct planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála for an Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Capable Terminal at Belview, Co Kilkenny. This isn’t just another upgrade; it’s a strategic leap that could reshape Ireland’s renewable energy landscape while honoring a thousand-year legacy of maritime commerce. Imagine a specialized hub rigged for assembling and launching offshore wind projects, backed by cutting-edge facilities, solar-powered infrastructure, and land reclamation that stretches the port’s potential — all aiming to support Ireland’s ambitious 7 GW offshore wind target by 2030. It’s about more than just infrastructure, folks; it’s a game-changer designed to spark jobs, boost regional growth, and tether old traditions to a green future. Curious how a historic port plans to navigate the waves of climate goals and economic growth simultaneously? Dive into the full story here. LEARN MORE

Port of Waterford has lodged a direct planning application with An Coimisiún Pleanála for its Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Capable Terminal at Belview, Co Kilkenny.

The plans, if approved, will transform the capacity of Ireland’s oldest Port, making it a key player in the future of the country’s renewable energy sector. 

This new development follows on after the recent granting of Maritime Area Consent (MAC) by the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA), which provides the legal basis for the Port to seek permission to develop the new infrastructure.

By securing the MAC, a pathway was opened for the Port of Waterford to build a purpose-built ORE terminal. 

An ORE Terminal is a specialised port facility designed to support the construction, assembly, and operation of offshore renewable energy projects, such as offshore wind farms.

The plan includes a 250-metre long extension to the existing wharves in Belview. 

The application also includes extensive land reclamation, new quayside operator support facilities with workshops and warehouses, berthing pontoons, and two separate three-storey office and staff buildings for ORE operators. 

The development contains a replacement electricity substation, underground services, roof-mounted solar PV arrays to generate renewable power on site, and a dedicated biodiversity enhancement area of approximately 1.8 hectares.

The multi-million euro investment is to place Waterford as a ‘as a strategic staging ground for major developments’ including the Tonn Nua Offshore Wind Farm and other projects in the Celtic Sea. 

With Ireland committed to generating 7 GW of offshore wind by 2030, the ORE Capable Terminal at Waterford is designed to support this target and beyond.

David Sinnott, CEO of Port of Waterford, said: “This is a landmark day for Port of Waterford. Our application is about more than new infrastructure — it’s about creating jobs, driving growth in the South East, and helping Ireland meet its 2030 climate goals. 

“Waterford has been a maritime gateway for over a thousand years, and now we are ready to lead Ireland into its offshore renewable future.”