EU Awards €20.2 Million Grant for Ireland’s First Tidal Kite Array
The European Commission’s €20.2 million grant to Minesto will cover 60% of the investment for Ireland’s first 10 MW tidal kite array, advancing EU net-zero goals.
Minesto has secured a €20.2 million grant from the European Commission for its planned 10 MW Euro Dragon Farm tidal kite array in Ireland, marking a significant milestone for tidal energy development in Europe.
The funding, announced on 19 October 2026, will cover 60% of the project’s investment, with the grant agreement set to be finalized in the first quarter of 2027. The contract will be signed with the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA).
The Euro Dragon Farm is the first of its kind in the European Union, positioning Minesto at the forefront of tidal energy technology. The project is part of a larger EU initiative that will distribute €3.4 billion in support of 77 net-zero technology projects, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 290 million tons over the next decade.
The grant is expected to help Minesto advance its Dragon Class tidal technology, potentially attracting further investment and partnerships in Europe’s growing renewable energy sector. For the EU, the initiative underlines a strategic commitment to diversify clean energy sources and strengthen energy security, with direct implications for meeting the bloc’s climate targets.
While the EU’s support offers significant momentum, the project faces risks including potential delays in finalizing the funding agreement and execution challenges during development. However, successful delivery would provide important proof of concept for tidal energy, offering a blueprint for similar projects across Europe.
The Euro Dragon Farm’s progress will be closely watched by policymakers and investors as Europe accelerates its transition to net-zero and explores new opportunities for renewable energy innovation.
