Renewable energy from the marine environment is primarily from three sources: offshore wind, waves and tides. These three sources of energy will be the main focus of this SEA commissioned by DETI. 

   
Offshore Wind
Offshore wind energy technology is currently at a more advanced stage of development compared to wave and tidal energy, with a number of commercial scale developments already in existence or construction in UK waters. To date, onshore wind has been the main source of NI’s renewable energy.  There are currently no offshore wind developments in Northern Ireland, although studies have confirmed the potential, primarily off the North Coast.  Offshore wind strengths are also generally more consistent and easier to predict.

Electricity Grid Connections and Capacity
It is widely recognized that the existing grid network in Northern Ireland (and across the Republic of Ireland) is currently operating at full capacity and requires expansion in certain locations to support ongoing economic and residential development and expansion.     These limitations in the capacity and coverage of the grid network also limit its ability to accommodate electricity generated from new renewable energy developments, which could potentially constrain the future development of offshore wind, wave and tidal energy.