20 new jobs in Dublin will be on offer at a renewable energy consultancy due to set up a new office in the capital. Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte has officially opened the new Natural Power headquarters in the city today.

The company has constructed over 50 wind farms in Europe and North America. This investment is supported by Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through IDA Ireland.

The Dublin office will focus on construction projects.

Speaking prior to the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) Annual Conference, Minister Rabbitte said "The Irish coast line has an abundance of renewable energy, in the offshore wind sector and it is vital that we continue to appropriately exploit this natural resource to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, which has a negative effect on our environment".

"A permanent base, in a great location"

Construction Director Ralph Spernagel commented that "The office in Dublin presents an exciting prospect for providing high quality construction management and consultancy services to clients within the Irish renewable market - from a permanent base, in a great location". The firm will also be looking for locally available engineers for the new Dublin office.

Jobs Minister Richard Bruton said "Today’s announcement is very positive and provides an indication of the potential that exists. I commend all involved, and wish Natural Power every success with their operations in Ireland".

Natural Power operates globally with offices in the UK, Europe and North America. Dublin is the company’s first office in Ireland and 13th internationally.