The Irish Wind Farmers’ Association (IWFA) is calling on community groups, farmers and small businesses to learn more about the upcoming SRESS (Small Scale Renewable Energy Support Scheme).
The IWFA is set to host its Annual Conference on Thursday, November 28. Organisers are inviting SMEs, community groups, and farmers to learn from the real-life experience of small-scale wind farmers and industry experts.
Anticipating an announcement shortly of government-backed support for smaller wind projects, the SRESS is high on the agenda for the conference.
The event will gather leaders from across Ireland’s renewable energy industry, policymakers, stakeholders and experienced onshore wind farmers to explore opportunities within the wind energy sector.
This year’s keynote speaker is Jim Breslin, chair of Renewable Energy Ireland. He will be joined by Paul O’Neill, principal officer in the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications alongside Tom Ryan, a Wicklow-based wind farmer, who will discuss the reapplication processes.
There will also be a series of panels discussing key challenges in the wind sector, planning, grid and markets.
Chair of the Irish Wind Farmers Association Paddy Phelan said: “Ireland’s renewable energy sector is at a critical juncture.
“Right now, we’re trailing the EU leader board for portion of energy produced sustainably, yet onshore wind projects represent one of our greatest opportunities to bring more groups into the fold and make meaningful strides towards the government’s 2030 commitment.
“The recent SRESS support scheme is a welcome step, but is it enough?” he added.
The IWFA has said that its members are telling them that the proposed scheme does not provide sufficient financial certainty for small-scale wind farmers.
It is calling for a more streamlined planning process and increased transparency to drive real uptake.
“These changes are essential if we’re serious about enabling new wind farmers large, small and community led to contribute to Ireland’s clean energy goals; this is just one of the issues we’ll address at this year’s conference,” Phelan added.
Wind energy
A focal point of this year’s conference is the government’s drafted Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS), which offers one or two turbine operators a 15-year guaranteed tariff on electricity sold to the grid.
The IWFA Annual Conference aims to share insight among wind farmers, industry experts, and newcomers interested in wind energy projects.
Attendees will have access to exhibitors, SME support, and interactive workshops on starting and growing wind energy operations in Ireland.
The IWFA Annual Conference, sponsored by Flogas, takes place on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Lyrath Estate in Co. Kilkenny.