Chambers wants Mayo to become leader in renewable energy
Mayo FF general election candidate Senator Lisa Chambers has reiterated her commitment to ensuring Mayo becomes a leader in renewable energy, underlining her years of advocacy for wind energy development.
The inclusion of ambitious renewable energy targets in her party's election manifesto underscores the party’s dedication to transforming Ireland into a global leader in wind energy production.
“Offshore wind energy has been at the heart of my vision for Mayo for many years,” Senator Chambers said.
“This isn’t a new focus for me—our county’s incredible natural resources have always offered the potential to transform Mayo into a renewable energy hub.
"What Fianna Fáil has outlined in its manifesto aligns with what I’ve been campaigning for over a long period.”
Central to these plans is the development of a floating offshore wind test site off the west coast by 2026, a project Senator Chambers has consistently championed.
“Floating wind technology has the potential to revolutionise our energy future, not only providing clean energy but also creating jobs, driving economic growth, and supporting local communities here in Mayo,” she added.
Fianna Fáil’s commitments in the manifesto also include:
Completing the Designated Marine Area Plan (DMAP) for the west coast, enabling the development of floating offshore wind projects.
Delivering 9GW of onshore wind, 8GW of solar, and at least 5GW of offshore wind by 2030.
Re-powering 76 wind farms reaching the end of their life in 2030 to maintain Ireland’s leadership in wind energy production.
Upgrading the national grid to support offshore energy and reduce consumer energy costs.
Supporting hybrid connections to share grid access between multiple renewable energy sources.
“These are the types of actions I’ve been advocating for consistently,” Senator Chambers said.
“The west coast, and Mayo in particular, has the capacity to lead Ireland’s renewable energy transition, but it requires planning, investment, and a clear strategy. That’s why I’ve worked tirelessly to keep these issues on the agenda.”
Senator Chambers also pointed to the broader benefits for communities in Mayo, emphasising that local economies and fishing families must benefit directly from offshore wind projects.
“This is about more than clean energy—it’s about ensuring communities are part of the transition. Wind energy development has the potential to provide sustainable jobs, income streams, and opportunities for future generations in Mayo,” she said.
Highlighting the infrastructure investment needed to support these ambitions, Senator Chambers stressed the importance of grid upgrades.
“For years, I’ve been calling for urgent action to strengthen the national grid, particularly in the west. Without it, we can’t fully capitalise on the opportunities offshore wind provides"
Senator Chambers concluded by reaffirming her determination to see these commitments delivered.
“The west coast has waited long enough for its potential to be realised. I’ve been campaigning for these changes for years, and I’ll continue to push for Mayo to lead the way in Ireland’s renewable energy future.”