EnBW and JERA Nex bp have invested over GBP 100 million (around EUR 113.5 million) in Belfast Harbour to advance the Mona and Morgan offshore wind farms in the Irish Sea.
The lease of Belfast Harbour’s D1 terminal will facilitate the assembly and marshalling of wind turbine components for these significant offshore wind farms.
Preparatory works are underway at Belfast Harbour to ensure site readiness by 2028. The initiative is projected to create approximately 300 jobs.
“It’s full speed ahead in our mission to bring about the clean power revolution—delivering energy security, reducing bills permanently, and fostering community growth across the UK. Creating skilled, well-paid jobs across Great Yarmouth, Belfast, and Greater Manchester, this is national renewal in action,” said UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
EnBW and JERA Nex bp acquired the project sites during the UK Round 4 leasing in early 2021. Development consent was granted for the 1.5 GW Mona project and for the 1.5 GW Morgan wind farm in subsequent months.
Both Morgan and Mona will feature up to 96 turbines in the Irish Sea.
“Belfast is the only port on the island of Ireland with offshore wind capabilities, and we are delighted to work with the Mona and Morgan projects. Their commitment will position the port and local supply chain as pivotal to the deployment of high-capacity wind farms, helping meet clean energy demand as Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Great Britain strive for net zero targets,” said Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour.
Belfast Harbour reinvests all profits back into the port and estate. The agreement has enabled Belfast Harbour to commit GBP 90 million to its D3 terminal, developing a dual-purpose site for cruise and offshore wind operations.
According to the port authority, Stage 1 involves constructing a new deepwater berth. Stage 2 will strengthen the terminal to accommodate future generation offshore wind turbines, some with core components weighing over 1,000 tonnes. This stage will also equip the site with shore power facilities, allowing vessels to use clean energy while docked.
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