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Simply Blue Group have partnered with French energy firm EDF Renewables to develop two significant offshore floating wind energy farms in Irish waters. EDF replaces Shell as the investment partner, who pulled out of the projects in September 2022. Fieldfisher's Corporate and Renewables team, led by Feilim O'Caoimh, advised long standing client Simply Blue Group on the partnership with EDF for the Western Star and Emerald Projects, following Shell's withdrawal.
The partnership underlines the confidence of EDF Renewables and Simply Blue Group in the Irish market, underpinned by the Irish Government’s commitment to generate 7GW of electricity from offshore wind by 2030. Both parties see great potential in the scale of opportunity for floating offshore wind in Ireland off the south and west coasts.
Sam Roch Perks, CEO of Simply Blue Group, stated that “Simply Blue are delighted to partner with EDF Renewables to deliver these strategic assets and to deliver Ireland’s first floating offshore wind farms. As an international renewable energy company, EDF Renewables are major players in the energy transition worldwide, ensuring alignment with Simply Blue’s culture and commitment to making a positive impact on climate, biodiversity and coastal communities. Simply Blue’s expertise in floating offshore wind, with over 10GW of floating projects in development globally, has been brought to bear on the selection of the two sites, following extensive stakeholder engagement and initial environmental assessments.”
Referencing Fieldfisher's involvement Head of Corporate and Renewables Feilim O'Caoimh commented: "We are thrilled to have advised on this joint venture, which brings together two major energy players and promises to be transformative to the production of off-shore wind energy in Ireland. Having provided legal expertise to Simply Blue Group for many years now we look forward to continuing to support them in all aspects of their business".
The Fieldfisher team who advised on the transaction alongside Feilim included Corporate and Renewables Partner Elaine Traynor and Associate Jamie Woodcock.