Orsted Secures Major Solar Contract to Power Homes in Wexford

Orsted has secured a significant contract for its largest solar development in Ireland, which has the potential to supply power for every second home in County Wexford. The company received approval for the Lodgewood solar project as part of the Government’s fifth onshore renewable energy support scheme (RESS5). This contract allows Orsted to operate a solar farm that can generate up to 109 megawatts (MW) of electricity, enough to power over 34,000 homes.

The Lodgewood project was awarded during an auction-based scheme where numerous energy projects competed for contracts to deliver electricity at a fixed price for a period of up to 16.5 years. Projects approved under RESS5 must be operational by December 31, 2030. In total, 18 solar projects and five onshore wind projects were cleared during this auction.

Expansion of Orsted’s Renewable Energy Portfolio

This contract marks Orsted’s third solar project to receive government approval in as many years. The Lodgewood solar farm is expected to become operational by 2028. According to TJ Hunter, Vice President of Onshore for Ireland and the UK at Orsted, “In addition to Lodgewood, we currently have two solar farms under construction, and a strong near-term pipeline of solar at over 800MW. If we are to ultimately achieve a secure energy supply for Ireland, solar energy is a fundamental piece of the jigsaw.”

Orsted is also developing solar facilities in Garreenleen, County Carlow, and Ballinrea, located between Douglas and Carrigaline in County Cork. The Ballinrea project, with a capacity of 55MW, is projected to generate enough electricity to power around 16,000 homes. Both of these projects are expected to be fully operational by 2026.

Significant Investment in Irish Renewable Energy

Orsted, headquartered in Denmark, has made substantial investments in the Irish renewable energy sector, totaling approximately €800 million. The company’s operations are based in Cork city, where it continues to expand its portfolio of solar and wind projects. The strategic focus on solar energy aligns with the Irish government’s target of achieving 8 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy by 2030, underscoring Orsted’s commitment to contributing to the country’s renewable energy goals.

With the Lodgewood project, Orsted is well-positioned to play a leading role in the transition to renewable energy in Ireland, enhancing energy security while providing sustainable power to local communities.