SSE'S IRISH WIND FARM ACHIEVES FIRST POWER
Industry NewsSource - reNews - SSE toasts first power from 101MW Irish wind farm
SSE Renewables has successfully achieved first power at its 101MW Yellow River Wind Farm in Rhode, County Offaly, Ireland. This milestone follows the project’s connection and energisation to Ireland’s national grid by system operator EirGrid.
The achievement marks a significant step forward for the renewable energy project, which is set to play a key role in delivering clean, homegrown energy to Irish consumers and supporting Ireland’s 2030 climate targets.
The energisation of Yellow River Wind Farm was made possible through close collaboration between SSE Renewables’ engineering teams, EirGrid, high-voltage electrical contractor Suir Engineering, and civil contractor Farrans Construction. Together, the teams successfully connected the project’s 29 Nordex N117/3600 wind turbines and the newly constructed Knockdrin 110kV substation to the existing Derryiron 110kV transmission station.
With first power now achieved, testing and commissioning of the turbines will take place over the coming months, paving the way for the project to reach full commercial operation, which is expected in early 2025.
Once operational, the 101MW Yellow River Wind Farm will make a significant contribution to Ireland’s renewable energy mix, delivering clean and secure energy to the grid. The entire installed capacity has been contracted under a 16.5-year RESS 3 agreement with the Irish Government, ensuring a long-term supply of low-carbon power.
Heather Donald, Director of Onshore Wind, Solar, and Battery (GB and Ireland) at SSE Renewables, commented:
“We’re delighted to have successfully energised the Yellow River project and to be producing clean electricity from the heart of the Midlands.
“Reaching first power at Yellow River successfully delivers another 101MW of clean energy supply to help meet Ireland’s climate targets. We now look forward to working with our project partners to complete commissioning over the coming months, ahead of entering commercial operations and beginning production of secure, homegrown renewable energy supply for Irish homes and businesses.”
Michael Mahon, Chief Infrastructure Officer at EirGrid, added:
“EirGrid’s successful energisation of Knockdrin 110kV substation, connecting Yellow River Wind Farm, is another step towards decarbonising Ireland’s electricity grid.
“Ireland is fortunate with abundant renewable energy resources, and harnessing these resources is critical in helping to meet our climate action targets. Achievements like this are only possible through close collaboration of stakeholders across the energy industry, and we at EirGrid are proud to collaborate on the successful delivery of this project.”
Construction of the Yellow River project commenced in October 2022, with turbine deliveries and installation beginning in December 2023. At its peak, the project supported up to 150 full-time jobs during the construction phase.
In addition to job creation, Yellow River Wind Farm will deliver long-term benefits to the local community through an annual Community Benefit Fund. The fund will provide financial support for local initiatives, projects, clubs, and amenities for the duration of the 16.5-year RESS contract.
As SSE Renewables advances toward full operation in early 2025, the Yellow River project demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering renewable energy solutions that drive local economic growth, create jobs, and support Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future.