Offshore Wind Skills Development: New Course Launch & January 2027 Programmes

As Ireland’s offshore wind sector moves towards delivery, the industry needs professionals who can turn development opportunities into bankable projects, manage complex electrical infrastructure and make informed decisions using robust environmental data.

For energy professionals looking to strengthen their expertise and prepare for the next phase of offshore wind development, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy offers specialist, industry-relevant training designed to support real-world project delivery.

Three courses are now open for applications, covering critical skills across project development, high-voltage systems and MetOcean data analysis.

Offshore Wind Development – Developing Bankable Offshore Wind Projects | UCC

Application Deadline: 8 January 2027 | Commences: 22 January 2027

Successful offshore wind projects require more than strong technical foundations. They depend on sound commercial decisions, effective risk management, stakeholder engagement and a clear pathway to investment.

This new NFQ level 9 accredited micro-credential course, delivered by University College Cork, explores the full offshore wind development lifecycle, with a particular focus on the factors that determine project viability and bankability.

Participants will develop practical knowledge of feasibility assessment, site selection, consenting, financing, project governance and risk mitigation, with insights into Ireland’s regulatory landscape and international industry experience. The programme culminates in a practical project development plan for a real-world Irish offshore wind site, helping learners apply their knowledge to the challenges facing the sector.

Designed for professionals in project development, commercial management, engineering, infrastructure delivery, consultancy and related fields, this course is particularly relevant to those involved in progressing projects towards Final Investment Decision (FID).


MetOcean Programming and Data Analysis | UCC

Application Deadline: 4 December 2026 | Commences: 20 January 2027

Reliable MetOcean data underpins critical decisions throughout offshore wind development, from site characterisation and resource assessment to engineering design and operational risk management.

This NFQ level 9 accredited micro-credential course, delivered by University College Cork, equips participants with practical skills to access, process, analyse and interpret the environmental data used in offshore wind projects. The programme covers programming with Python, working with datasets from sources such as ERA5, CMEMS and NOAA, and analysing time-series and spatial data. Participants also explore data visualisation and the application of analytical techniques to resource evaluation, risk assessment and downtime analysis.

For organisations seeking to strengthen their analytical capabilities, these skills can support more informed technical assessments and evidence-based project decisions. The course is particularly relevant to professionals working in resource assessment, marine and environmental data, engineering and offshore wind development who want to build their programming and analytical capabilities.


Certificate in the Safe Operation of Offshore High Voltage Power Systems | MTU

Application Deadline: 11 January 2027 | Commences: 19 January 2027

As offshore wind infrastructure expands, competent professionals are essential to the safe and reliable operation of high-voltage electrical systems.

Delivered by Munster Technological University (MTU), this NFQ level 7 award combines technical learning with practical training in high-voltage operations and safety management. Participants explore offshore HVAC and HVDC systems, substations, switchgear, protection systems, switching procedures and safe systems of work.

Laboratory sessions, simulator exercises and industry-based case studies help bridge the gap between technical knowledge and operational practice, supporting the development of skills required across offshore wind farms and associated electrical infrastructure. The course is suited to electrical engineers, technicians, qualified electricians and marine electrical professionals seeking to build their expertise in offshore high-voltage operations.


Subsidised Training for Energy Professionals in Ireland

For eligible participants, our course fees are subsidised through Skillnet Ireland funding, helping businesses and professionals access accredited offshore wind training at a significantly reduced cost. Learn more about our funding criteria or check your eligibility here.


Share this article:
Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy