Grant funding comes from Skillnet Ireland through the Irish National Training fund, and, as a result, is ONLY available to residents of the Republic of Ireland who work as a sole trader, or for a private or semi-state commercial company registered in ROI. Please read Eligibility Criteria.

During this module, you will:

• Explore the role of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in the planning and delivery of renewable energy projects, particularly onshore wind developments.

• Gain a clear understanding of Irish and EU environmental legislation and how it applies to infrastructure and energy projects.

• Learn how to contribute to effective, evidence-based EIAs that balance environmental protection with development needs.

• Develop key professional skills in scoping, impact analysis, mitigation planning and post-project monitoring.

Key Information

This micro-credential will be delivered online over 8 weeks through a blend of pre-recorded lectures, interactive tasks, and live sessions. 

You’ll be assessed using a final report to identify and synthesise current best practice of Irish wind EIA.

Part-time considerations:    

• • Designed for working professionals    

  • Evening or recorded lectures    

  • Additional prep and group work time    

  • Timetable provided after registration 

• Define the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and articulate its purpose.
  Critically assess and interpret relevant EU Directives and Irish legislation.
• Evaluate the stages in the implementation of EIA: methods for screening, scoping, impact identification and evaluation, review, monitoring, and post development auditing.
• Compare and review EIA and EIS.
• Define and assess Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), its objectives, and methodologies.
• Acknowledge the differences amongst legitimate stakeholder views in relation to environmental impact assessment.
• Discuss the role of the scientist in environmental impact assessment.

• Blended learning approach with asynchronous activities (i.e. Pre-recorded lectures, Micro-learning Activities, Discussion Forums, Knowledge Checks) and synchronous live events (i.e. live online sessions).
• Final report to identify and synthesise current best practice of Irish wind EIA.

This is a 6 ECTS micro-credential.

• Professionals in the Renewable Energy Sector:
  • Environmental Consultants: Individuals who specialize in conducting EIAs and need to deepen their understanding of wind energy-specific assessments.
  • Project Managers: Those overseeing wind farm projects and responsible for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Environmental Engineers: Engineers involved in the design and implementation of wind energy projects who need to consider environmental impacts.
  • Ecologists and Biologists: Professionals focused on the impact of wind farms on wildlife and natural habitats.
• Government and Regulatory Personnel:
  • Environmental Planners: Government officials or planners involved in reviewing and approving wind farm projects who need a thorough understanding of EIA processes.
  • Policy Makers: Those involved in developing regulations or policies related to wind energy and environmental protection.
  • Regulatory Compliance Officers: Individuals ensuring that wind farm projects comply with environmental laws and regulations.
• Other Stakeholders:
  • Legal Professionals: Lawyers specializing in environmental law who advise clients on compliance with EIA requirements for wind farms.
  • Developers and Investors: Those investing in or developing wind energy projects who need to understand the environmental assessment process to mitigate risks and ensure project viability.

***Applications are welcome from those who hold a degree in a relevant subject area, and/or have significant, relevant experience in the energy sector. Please note that applicants must hold a Level 8 Degree in cognitive discipline or equivalent relevant professional experience.***

Applicants who do not have English as their first language may satisfy English Language requirements:

• If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice
• If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
  • English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts AND
  • English language competency certificate

For more information on English Language requirements Click Here

All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This micro-credential can lead to the following sectors and careers:

• Environmental consultancy and planning, including roles such as Environmental Consultant or Environmental Planner

• Energy sector roles related to project development and regulation, including Project Manager or Energy Analyst

• Environmental science and assessment roles, such as Environmental Scientist, Ecologist or Hydrologist

• Further study or training in renewable energy, environmental management or EIA-related specialisms

To help you to be successful on this course:

• Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant cognitive discipline. 

• If applicants have a lower result or an unrelated qualification, they may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they can provide evidence of 3 years of experience in the energy sector. (Recognised Prior Learning).

Guidelines for your applications:

• When applying, be sure to include the Module Code ER6421. We can’t process your application without it. You can apply for more than one module using the same application. 

• By applying, you confirm that you meet the entry requirements and can take part in the course and its assessments. 

• This course will go ahead if it meets minimum enrolment number. 

• Completing this module doesn’t guarantee you a place in a full programme. If you want to apply for a full programme, you must meet the specific entry requirements for that programme.