The Government has announced an €8 million boost for offshore wind development as part of Budget 2026, a move welcomed by Wind Energy Ireland.

The funding will support marine surveys to identify suitable sites for future wind farms under the national Designated Maritime Area Plan, which is due to be completed by the end of 2027.

The investment is aimed at accelerating Ireland’s transition to renewable energy and comes alongside increased funding for key State agencies involved in the sector, including the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, EirGrid and ESB Networks.

Wind Energy Ireland chief executive Noel Cunniffe said the announcement provides confidence that the resources needed to deliver the DMAP on time will be in place. “This investment, along with additional funding to increase capacity within our State agencies, will help transform our electricity system and accelerate the delivery of clean, affordable and secure energy for Irish families and businesses,” he said.

The DMAP is a critical framework for planning offshore wind projects and is seen as essential to meeting Ireland’s climate targets. The new funding is expected to strengthen regulatory oversight and grid infrastructure as the country ramps up its renewable energy ambitions.