Wind Energy Ireland and Solar Ireland, the leading renewable energy industry associations in Ireland, have partnered with the country’s foremost environmental network, Environmental Pillar, to call for a shift in the Government’s approach to accelerating the delivery of renewable energy and grid infrastructure, while also protecting the environment.

The three organizations have jointly issued a statement outlining a series of important and specific measures to ensure a carbon-free electricity system as quickly and sustainably as possible.

According to the statement, Ireland must coordinate efforts to accelerate the construction of new wind and solar farms, with equal emphasis on how we support and enhance our land and marine biodiversity.

The declaration highlights the need for stronger responses and increased resources at all levels of Government to address five key priority areas:

1. Accelerated renewable infrastructure that includes nature
2. Transparent, up-to-date, and accessible environmental data
3. Inclusive stakeholder engagement
4. Improved permitting and planning processes
5. Investment in environmental education

Justin Moran, Director of External Affairs at Wind Energy Ireland, stated that “Irish people want the affordable, clean and secure power that wind farms deliver. We need to build more, and build faster — but also sustainably, in ways that protect and even enhance our natural biodiversity.”

Karen Ciesielski, Coordinator of the Environmental Pillar, added “as Ireland speeds up its use of renewable energy, it must do so in a balanced way — prioritising nature restoration and ensuring compliance with environmental law, while meeting our climate obligations. This joint declaration offers a clear roadmap for the Government to respond more effectively and urgently to the twin climate and biodiversity crises. It calls for greater investment in environmental protection, a robust and efficient planning system, better access to environmental data, meaningful public participation, and access to justice.”