Wind Farm Approvals Drop in Q2

An Coimisiún Pleanála approved just two new wind farms in the second quarter of 2025, meeting only around 13 percent of the wind energy volume needed to keep Ireland on track with its Climate Action Plan targets.

This is according to the latest quarterly report published today by Wind Energy Ireland, which tracks the progress of wind energy projects through the planning system. The two approved wind farms have a combined capacity of 79 megawatts (MW). To stay on course for the 9,000 MW of onshore wind energy required by 2030, the Commission would have needed to approve 595 MW during this period.

The report also reveals that planning applications for two wind farms, with a combined capacity of 76 MW, were rejected in the second quarter. Meanwhile, 31 projects totalling 1,643 MW remain pending decisions at the end of June.

Justin Moran, Director of External Affairs with Wind Energy Ireland, said the slowdown in approvals is disappointing after strong performances in previous quarters. He noted that the Commission had approved seven projects in the first quarter of 2025, continuing momentum from a successful 2024.

“Although planning decisions slowed in quarter two, the extra resources provided to Ireland’s planning authorities are making a difference. Decision timelines are falling,” Moran said.

He added that additional resources will be needed to meet deadlines set out in the EU’s RED III Directive and to speed up permitting for renewable energy projects.

The updated National Planning Framework sets regional renewable energy targets that require local planning authorities to update County Development Plans to support more onshore wind energy. Ahead of Budget 2026, Wind Energy Ireland is calling for increased staffing and resources for local planning authorities to help meet these targets.

“We need to build more wind farms and strengthen the electricity grid. To do that, we must have a planning system that can deliver the infrastructure we need,” Moran said.

“Investing in our planning system is an investment in our future. It will help accelerate the delivery of cleaner, more affordable electricity, benefiting communities today and future generations.”

Moran concluded by highlighting the importance of wind energy in protecting Irish consumers and strengthening energy security amid global economic uncertainty.

“Every wind farm through the planning system and connected to the electricity grid protects Irish electricity consumers and strengthens Irish energy security.”