Site Identification Analysis for AWE Devices. A case study in Ireland

This report presents the methodology and findings of a site identification analysis for Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) in Ireland, conducted under the DEM-AWE project. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and public datasets, the study evaluates site suitability based on environmental, geographic, and logistical factors, adapting a methodology previously applied in Germany. The analysis considered key criteria such as slope, operational radius, and proximity to settlements to ensure adaptability across different AWE technologies. High-quality geospatial data from OpenStreetMap, NASA, and Copernicus were processed in QGIS, assessing buffer zones, forest distances, and operational constraints. 

The results achieved a 100% match with verified sites, identifying 1,600–1,800 km² of deployment area and up to 24,000 potential AWE devices, supporting over 30 GW of capacity. County Mayo, County Donegal, and County Kerry emerged as high-potential areas due to their geography and low population density. The study also found that operational radius plays a critical role in deployment potential, with shorter tethers enabling higher densities. However, data gaps in building classification and forest cover highlight the need for refined datasets and ground validation before final site selection. Ireland’s lower population density and greater land availability make it a strategic location for AWE deployment, contributing to renewable energy targets and fostering innovation in high-altitude wind technologies.