Landscape Visual Impact Assessment launch event
Wednesday, 28 January 2026

University of Limerick (UL), in partnership with Greentech Skillnet, has officially launched a new 7-week micro-credential in Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), responding to the growing demand for specialist skills in Ireland’s renewable energy and planning sectors. The micro-credential was formally launched by Minister of State Timmy Dooley, highlighting its national relevance to climate action and skills development. 

Commencing on 2 March, the Level 9 micro-credential introduces learners to the theory and practice of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy developments such as wind farms. Applications are now open, with a closing date of 13 February. 

As Ireland accelerates its transition to a low-carbon economy, robust and transparent assessment of landscape and visual impacts has become a critical component of the planning and consenting process for renewable energy infrastructure. This new micro-credential has been developed collaboratively by UL and Greentech Skillnet to ensure strong alignment with industry needs, regulatory frameworks and best practice. 

Commenting on the importance of the programme, Mark Ruane, Head of Renewable Energy Skills at Wind Energy Ireland, said: 

“This programme is about building real, practical workforce capacity where industry needs it most. Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment is a critical component of planning applications, yet until now there has been no formal, consistent training pathway in Ireland.” 

Delivered by experienced academic staff and industry practitioners, the programme provides learners with a practical and applied understanding of LVIA. 

Designed for professionals working in planning, environmental consultancy, renewable energy development, local authorities and related fields, as well as graduates seeking to enhance their employability in this specialist and high-demand area. 

Greentech Skillnet funding of up to 40% is available for eligible participants, supporting organisations to upskill their workforce in line with Ireland’s green transition. 

According to Professor Sandra Joyce, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at UL: 

“This module responds directly to a national need: as Ireland expands its renewable energy infrastructure, we must ensure consistent, rigorous and future-focused approaches to assessing the landscape and visual impacts of development. The LVIA micro-credential equips professionals with vital skills, blending theory, fieldwork, digital spatial analysis and applied reporting to build competence in one of the most complex and specialised areas of environmental assessment.” 

This micro-credential reflects UL and Greentech Skillnet’s shared commitment to delivering industry-responsive, flexible education that supports Ireland’s climate action targets and the development of green skills across the workforce. 

Start date: 2 March 
Duration: 7 weeks 
Application deadline: 13 February 

For more information and to apply, visit: 
https://www.ul.ie/gps/courses/landscape-visual-impact-assessment-lvia-module-gy6002