Embargoed until Tuesday 2 December 2014, 00:01
First Flight Wind to cease development of offshore wind project
“The First Flight Wind consortium announced today that it is ceasing development of its Northern Ireland offshore wind farm. The company has made significant progress in establishing the feasibility of the project off the coast of Co. Down. However, as a result of delays to the design of the new market and renewable incentive arrangements for Northern Ireland, First Flight Wind has concluded that the project can no longer be built in the timeframes likely to be required under the new market rules. As a result, it is not going to be possible to continue with further project development and consent related activity.
First Flight Wind believes this to be a disappointing outcome for all involved. A project like this could make a substantial contribution to Northern Ireland’s requirements for secure and low-carbon electricity and could provide significant local economic opportunities.
The consortium would like to thank all those who engaged with First Flight Wind throughout the process. We believe that there continues to be potential in the future for an offshore wind farm in the area and we hope that the thorough stakeholder dialogue started by First Flight Wind will provide a sound basis for any future development.”
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