Some 80% of consumers support the development of wind energy in Ireland, with 62% saying they would support a wind farm in their local area, a new study by Interactions Research on behalf of Wind Energy Ireland has found.
Just 4% declared their opposition to wind energy in the survey, indicating a ‘steady increase in support’ for the renewable resource, Wind Energy Ireland said.
‘Highly supportive’
“Irish people are hugely supportive of wind energy and know it is the leading solution to rising energy costs and the climate emergency,” commented Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland.
“Wind power is already helping to reduce electricity prices, cut carbon emissions, and create jobs in communities across the country. With public support stronger than ever, we need to accelerate investment in grid infrastructure and skills to maximise the benefits for families, businesses and the environment.”
Offshore wind energy
Other findings from the survey indicate that 75% support the development of offshore wind energy, with 82% believing it plays an important role in securing Ireland’s energy supply.
However, just one in four believe that Ireland is doing enough at a policy level to encourage offshore wind development.
Cunniffe said that offshore wind represents an “enormous opportunity” for Ireland, and could be the basis of our national energy independence.
“Research has shown that Ireland’s offshore wind farms could generate €38 billion for the Irish economy by 2050 if we can unlock its potential,” he added.
“This survey proves we have the support of the Irish people but they want to see more and faster delivery. The Government needs to identify new sites for offshore wind energy projects around our coasts and reinforce the electricity grid to accommodate the enormous clean power these wind farms can produce.”
The survey of 1,070 Irish adults took place between 17 November and 1 December 2024. Read more here.
