6. Natural Energy Resources Wind Power in Ireland


There are over 400 wind farms on the island of Ireland. Ireland’s first wind farm was opened in 1992 at Bellacorick, Co. Mayo.


Ireland also has offshore wind farms located in the Irish Sea, around 10 km off the coast of Arklow. These supply energy to the county of Wicklow.


Environmental Benefit


Wind energy is a renewable and clean source of energy. In 2021, 86% of all Ireland’s electricity from renewable sources came from wind energy. This meant a reduction in CO2 levels. Also, offshore wind farms do not disturb the peace of towns or villages.


Economic Benefit


 Harnessing wind energy has the potential to create 7,250 jobs for the construction industry as more wind farms are planned for Ireland. There are approximately 6,000 people employed in wind energy companies in Ireland.


 As well as creating employment, the companies building these wind farms are mostly Irish. This means that the money spent on building these farms stays within our economy.


Managing information and thinking


With the person sitting next to you, examine this photo of a wind farm located in Co. Donegal. Why do you think this was a suitable location in which to build a wind farm?


Question Time


1. (a) Name two advantages and two disadvantages of wind-generated electricity. (b) Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Explain why. 2. Explain the environmental and economic benefits of wind energy for Ireland.


3. Imagine you live near the site for a proposed wind farm. Write an email to your local council either in favour of or against the wind farm’s location. Provide three reasons to support your view.


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