Shell to float Emerald offshore wind energy project

Shell has signed an agreement with Irish developer Simply Blue Energy to acquire a 51% share of their Kinsale venture to develop the Emerald Project floating wind farm in the Celtic Sea.

The joint venture will be operated by Simply Blue Energy supported by Shell floating wind experts, with the project office based in the Cork City Docklands rejuvenation area.

The partnership combines ‘floating wind track-record and local knowledge of Simply Blue Energy with Shell’s offshore experience, floating wind expertise and an ability to develop large complex projects.

‘The Emerald Project is a fantastic example of the energy transition, located in the vicinity of the Kinsale gas fields, currently being decommissioned,’ according to Shell.

Energy transition

The project, which will use state-of-the-art renewable floating wind-powered generators, is targeting 300MW of installed capacity in the early stages with the potential to scale-up to totalled installed capacity of 1GW.

This is equivalent to powering 800,000 Irish homes or the capacity of the Moneypoint power station, Ireland’s largest electricity generation station.

Floating wind technology can be installed in deeper waters than fixed wind turbines, thereby allowing this project to be placed 35km-60km offshore and reducing visual impacts. Depending on the size of the turbines selected, the first phase will include between 15 and 25 turbines.

‘Assembly, installation and deployment of the turbines could stimulate hundreds of high-quality jobs in the local supply chain. Long-term operations and maintenance will also require local skills and services for up to 25,’ says Shell.

Integrated power business

Colin Crooks, VP Offshore Wind, Shell, says the company aims to build an integrated power business spanning electricity generation, trading and supply:

“This project could provide green power to consumers and businesses alike and contribute towards Shell’s ambition to be a net-zero emissions business by 2050, or sooner.”

Sam Roch-Perks, CEO Simply Blue Energy said floating wind energy was a major opportunity for Ireland to become a ‘Green Gulf’ by realising the benefits of its vast marine and offshore resources without negatively impacting the coastline.

“Simply Blue Energy is delighted to work with Shell to further our portfolio of floating wind projects in the Celtic Sea. Our shared vision for Emerald is to do the right thing for stakeholders, the community and the environment.

“This announcement represents an important milestone in the ability of the Emerald project to ensure the government meets it climate target of 5GW of offshore wind by 2030.”