Public consultations to inform local communities in Ballycastle and on Rathlin Island about a proposed 100MW tidal energy scheme off the North Antrim coast attracted more than 100 visitors over the two days, according to the organisers.
“Engagement with local communities is a very important part of our development activities, and we welcomed the level of feedback we received over the two days, which will help in finalising our plans,” said Clodagh McGrath , Fair Head Tidal Project Manager.
The tidal energy scheme proposed by development companies DP Energy and Bluepower, which together make the joint venture Fair Head Tidal Energy Park, would provide enough electricity for more than 70,000 homes.
Fair Head Tidal intends to submit a planning application for the offshore component of the project, covering a development area of some 3.3 square kilometres and about one kilometre north east of Fair Head, later this summer, DP Energy informed.
Before the end of the year, the Fair Head Tidal team plans to return to Ballycastle to share details on the second component of the project which will cover the proposed onshore works in the vicinity of Murlough Bay in order to connect the tidal project into the Northern Ireland electricity network, DP Energy said.
“We are very respectful of the views of local communities,” added McGrath. “We look forward to returning to the area in the coming months to share our proposals for the onshore works and again very much welcome feedback.”