Madam, – John FitzGerald and Laura Malaguzzi Valeri of the ESRI (Opinion, December 15th) argue that the cost of support for offshore wind cannot be justified as onshore wind is less expensive.
However, the two should not be seen as competitors. While onshore wind can contribute to our renewable energy targets, Ireland has an unparalleled offshore wind resource and the potential to be a leading exporter of offshore generated electricity. To do this an offshore transmission network and further interconnection with the rest of the EU are required.
Offshore wind is perhaps Ireland’s greatest natural resource. We need to see it as an asset, not a liability. – Yours, etc,