A strategic analysis of the constraints to the development of wind energy in Ireland

Abstract

Wind farms are a relatively new feature to the Irish landscape and the number and size of these are set to increase considerably in the coming decade as Ireland is compelled to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol. Despite the obvious global benefits of renewable energy there are adverse local impacts associated with wind farms, which have to be considered. There are various parties who have a direct or indirect role in the development of the wind energy industry and they often have conflicting views and positions. This thesis identifies these main stakeholders and examines how they interact within the present regulatory framework for planning and energy. It then examines the difficulties these parties have experienced with these policies and goes on to suggest possible modifications to the current system. If implemented, these would help reduce some of the development constraints the industry has already witnessed.