Appendix 5 Wicklow Wind Energy Strategy

1. Introduction – Interim measures
Wicklow County Council recognises the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels for energy generation and supports the development of renewable resources.  As set out in Chapter 16 of this plan, the most readily available and simplest to exploit renewable resource is wind. However, as there is a strong correlation between areas with the highest wind resource and sensitive coastal and upland landscapes, a strategy is required which allows the Council to support the development of wind farms, whilst protecting environmental and material assets.   

The 2006 Wind Energy Guidelines (DoEHLG) for Ireland offer advice to Planning Authorities on planning for wind energy through the development plan process and in determining applications for planning permission. The guidelines set out a step-by-step approach for the identification of key areas where there are good wind energy resources capable of exploitation in a manner consistent with proper planning and sustainable development. This ordered approach involves a sieve mapping analysis of the key environmental, landscape, technical and economic criteria which must be balanced in order to identify the most suitable location for wind energy development. While an update to these guidelines is anticipated shortly, the 2006 guidance currently forms the sole guide for planning for wind energy development in Ireland.  

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