Norwegian energy giant Equinor has launched an Irish offshore wind partnership with renewable energy-focused firm ESB.
The agreement will see both firms work together to identify potential sites for new offshore wind projects off the coast of Ireland in both fixed bottom and floating wind.
ESB will also work alongside Equinor to determine the viability of energy storage technology.
The Irish firm added the partnership would look to explore the suitability for offshore wind projects capable of being operational by 2030.
Jens O. Okland, senior vice president for business development in new energy solutions for Equinor, said: “We are looking forward to a strong collaboration with ESB, where we will jointly explore offshore wind opportunities in the Irish market.
“ESB brings local knowledge and expertise and in the ongoing energy transition offshore wind can contribute as an important source of renewable providing energy to people and progress to society.”
Equinor built the world’s first floating wind farm, Hywind Scotland, in 2017, which lies nine miles off the coast of Peterhead.
The firm’s planned 88MW Hywind Tampen wind farm aims to cut carbon emissions at Norway’s Snorre and Gullfaks fields by 200,000 tonnes by powering the installations.
The project is a more than £400 million investment by Equinor.
ESB generation and trading executive Director Jim Dollard called the partnership a demonstration of his firms “commitment” to creating a low-carbon future,.
He added: “The delivery of offshore wind projects in Ireland further supports our strategy to significantly reduce the carbon intensity of the electricity we generate.
“By collaborating with innovative, like-minded organisations such as Equinor we will play a leading role in the transition to a clean energy future.
“Equinor’s scale and capabilities making them an ideal long-term partner. Today’s announcement represents a significant commitment by ESB in offshore wind in Ireland.”
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