The development of a five- megawatt wave energy project in waters off west Clare has moved a step closer.
An application for a foreshore licence has been lodged with the Department of the Environment by the company involved, CWE Ireland.
The firm chose the 8.8sq km site after investigating the potential of developing such a site off Ireland over the past two years.
The cost of the study into a five-megawatt demonstration project totalled €150,000, and this was half-funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.
Kieran O’Brien of CWE Ireland said yesterday the wave potential off Co Clare was “one of the best in the world”.
The Australian-owned firm hopes to begin test works at the site, which is adjacent to the shore and extends 3km offshore, next spring.
Spanish Point beach is a popular surf spot and the firm’s application states that the works will have no impact on water sport activities at the beach.
The application also says there will be no impact on fishing activities in the area.
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