Five Wind Farms Secure Contracts in Latest Renewable Auction

Five onshore wind energy projects, with a combined capacity of 219 MW, were successful in the latest round of the Government’s Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), according to results published today by EirGrid.

The average price for wind and solar projects in RESS 5 was €98.81 per megawatt hour, slightly higher than last year’s €96.85 but below the 2023 peak of €100.47. Wind projects secured an average price of €96.56 per MWh, while solar energy projects came in at €100.63.

Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, welcomed the outcome, saying the auction would provide “more clean, affordable and secure power for Irish families and businesses” and help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. He added that the sector remains keen to support additional projects and is seeking alternative routes to market for bids that were unsuccessful.

In addition to the wind projects, 18 solar energy projects totalling 860 MW were awarded contracts, reflecting the continued growth of Ireland’s renewable energy sector.

Cunniffe said the focus now would be on ensuring more wind farms progress through the planning system and secure grid connections ahead of next year’s auction.