Call to reverse decision excluding Mayo from offshore renewable energy plan

A DECISION in a draft plan that excludes Mayo from offshore renewable energy projects must be reversed.

Three broad areas of interest have been identified for developing projects, with none of them off the west coast.

Mayo County Council is making a submission as part of the offshore renewable energy development plan consultation process. Submissions close on April 20.

The matter was raised by Councillor Jarlath Munnelly at the authority's monthly meeting where he said the decision to exclude the west coast of Mayo and Galway has to be reversed.

Highlighting the enormous potential off our coast, he said we have the capacity to power the country and some more.

His colleagues supported his motion, with Councillor Neil Cruise saying it is imperative that Mayo is included in the plan.

Surely the environmental conditions off the west coast were very suitable for producing energy, Councillor Al McDonnell noted.

He also made the point that any such developments operating off our coast would be liable to pay rates to the council, so there would be a loss of income there.