Supporting Just Transition and Coexistence in Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy Future

This is a six-month research project funded under the Marine Institute’s 2025 Research for Policy Call. It will deliver a socio-economic analysis and a corresponding framework, combining quantitative and qualitative data, that will demonstrate how traditional and emerging blue economy sectors could coexist equitably with potential Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) projects. Drawing from international examples on coexistence in Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) and using novel participatory and co-creation approaches, the project will ensure the preservation of local livelihoods while also exploring new economic opportunities. The outcomes and tested approaches will enable the sustainable implementation of Designated Maritime Area Plans (DMAPs) in Ireland in a way that is considerate of local communities’ and stakeholders’ needs and interests. 

Comparative analysis of international case studies to inform socioeconomic aspects of coexistence in maritime spatial planning and DMAP making.

• Socio-economic field study report synthesizing community-level anticipated experiences of coexistence with quantitative socioeconomic data. 

• Integrated Socio-Economic Impact assessment framework blending qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis and guidance for future application.  

• Policy recommendations synthesizing the above aspects in a report and policy brief for adjusting current policy and practice.

• Public awareness communication materials and activities to support transparent, inclusive dialogue and public engagement in the case study and in other National DMAP locations of Ireland. 

If you are interested in this research, please contact the Principal Investigator Dr Zacharoula Kyriazi, (ei.ccu@izairyKZ) or Research Assistant, Dylan Krug (ei.ccu@gurkd).