Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Marine Renewable Energy Developments

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Marine Renewable Energy Developments (MRED) is a complex, multidisciplinary process that requires coordinated efforts from ecologists, engineers, planners, device manufacturers, construction contractors, and other stakeholders. Although each MRED presents unique challenges, every EIA must address the concerns of both the public and regulatory bodies, tailored to the specific site and aligned with best practice standards. Developed in collaboration with industry partners, this Micro-Credential combines research-driven instruction with problem-based learning to deliver an in-depth understanding of the critical factors shaping the future of sustainable energy.

This micro-credential is structured to cover both the fundamental requirements for conducting an environmental impact assessment at a proposed Marine Renewable Energy Development (MRED) site and the application of best practices through relevant Irish case studies that reflect upcoming MRED projects. Participants will:

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) requirements for MRED licensing.
Identify the roles of key stakeholders and appreciate the importance of consultation in developing a successful EIAR.
Explain the requirements and formats for EIA Screening and Scoping reports following best practice guidelines.
Outline the standards and structure for EIARs specific to offshore renewable energy developments.
Understand the essential content for EIAR sections, including Alternatives, Project Description, Baseline Conditions, Effects Assessment, Mitigation, Monitoring, and Residual Effects.
Appreciate the need for producing clear, coherent, and accessible reports that effectively cross-reference topics to avoid redundancy and allow for integrated assessment.
Describe best practices for document review to ensure the EIAR presents information clearly and effectively.

This course will be delivered fully online and features continuous assessment to support ongoing learner engagement and progress. Lectures will take place on Wednesdays from 7pm-9pm , and will end the week commencing 29/05/2026. The sessions will consist of a lecturer and guest speaker delivering for 40 mins each. This to be followed by questions, group discussion and tutorial for 30 minutes.

Orientation, 4th March 2026: Recorded orientation material will be released to students.
Welcome Forum, 11th March 2026: Students will review the introductory materials and participate in a welcome and getting to know each other discussion forum
Lectures Commence: 18th March 2026

Skillnet Course Fee: € 1800

Full Course Fee: € 800

Eligibility for the subsidised Skillnet Course Fee is based on the following factors:

Trainees

Key requirements regarding the trainee:

Trainees must be based in the Republic of Ireland to be eligible.
Trainees must be employed within private enterprise/self-employed.
This program is designed for professionals working in a related sector, seeking to upskill and transition into the offshore wind industry.

Companies

Key requirements regarding the eligibility of businesses to participate in funding:

Companies must be from private enterprise based in the Republic of Ireland.
Skillnet Ireland funding is not available to public sector bodies or organisations that are publicly funded such as community-based not-for-profit companies or charities.
Commercial semi-state companies are eligible providing that income contributed to a Network is not sourced from the public purse.
Sole traders are eligible as Companies.

If you are not eligible for funding the course fee is € 1800. Where a trainee enrols on a course and pays the full fee, no refund will be provided if eligibility is determined later.

If you have further queries on funding, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie including the module you wish to apply for.

Applicants must be over 21 years of age.

Applicants must have a primary degree with a 2.1 or above, or equivalent in a relevant discipline.

Designed for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in the environmental assessment processes specific to offshore renewable energy projects.

Companies seeking to develop and upskill their workforce to undertake projects related to offshore wind farm development.

Career Pathways:

This course equips professionals aiming to become Offshore Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Managers in the offshore wind sector with the essential skills to assess and manage environmental impacts. Focusing on regulatory requirements, stakeholder engagement, and best practices, it prepares learners to lead sustainable and compliant environmental assessments for offshore wind projects.