To date, onshore wind has been the main source of NI’s renewable energy. However, studies undertaken in recent years indicate significant potential from offshore wind and marine renewables (wave and tidal) but there is a need to assess the possible impact of such developments on the environment.
A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is being undertaken for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI).  This will enable a better understanding of the environmental impacts from wind, wave and tidal energy development around the coast of Northern Ireland. The SEA will also help shape planning guidance and steer project developers to the best sites for device deployment.
DETI is currently preparing a Strategic Action Plan for the future development of offshore wind and marine renewable energy.  The results from the SEA will be used to assist DETI with the ongoing development of the Strategic Action Plan, which is due to be completed by 2010.   
This website will allow stakeholders and the public to keep up-to-date with the progress of the SEA and act as a gateway to SEA reports and mapping, and other information of interest - particularly as the project enters its consultation phase.

The website was last updated on May 24, 2010. It was developed, and is being maintained, by Metoc on behalf of the SEA.

Project timescales