SSE Thermal has given the go ahead to build a state-of-the-art next generation power station in Co. Kerry.
The eco-friendly 300MW plant in the coastal village of Tarbert will run on 100% sustainable biofuels with the potential to convert to hydrogen.
The use of sustainable biofuels – specifically hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) – provides a lower carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The HVO will be sourced from 100% waste feedstocks and supplied in line with the EU’s RED II sustainability requirements.
The SSE plc-owned company said building the power station will require up to €300m in capital expenditure.
Planning consent was granted by An Bord Pleanála in October last year. SSE Thermal said enabling works are now underway ahead of full construction commencing later this year. It is expected the plant will be completed towards the end of 2027.
Ansaldo Energia and Limerick-headquartered Atlantic Projects Company (APC) are the lead partners on the project. Ansaldo’s AE94.3A turbine is seen as both "flexible and reliable", while APC will provide balance of plant services.
In addition to the new power station, SSE Thermal has also delivered a temporary emergency generation project at the site at the request of Irish authorities. The 150MW temporary generation capacity, which will cease operations no later than March 2028, was commissioned in January this year.
The decision to build a power station at Tarbert follows the closure of the original plant, which was owned by SSE, in 2023. The site has been generating electricity for more than half a century.
SSE had operated a total of 620MW of generating capacity at the site, comprising two 60MW and two 250MW oil-fired turbines. It was designed to maintain security of supply in Ireland’s all-island single electricity market, by operating during periods of high energy demand.
Finlay McCutcheon, managing director of SSE Thermal, said committing to the new project is a “landmark moment” for Tarbet.
“In taking this final investment decision, we are underlining our commitment to delivering the next generation of power at the site, supporting Ireland’s electricity system and laying the foundations for a low-carbon future,” he added.
"Our focus now shifts to the safe and timely construction of Tarbert Next Generation Power Station, working closely with our partners at Ansaldo Energia and APC to deliver this vital project.
"At the same time, we hope to see the new government in Ireland bring forward the enduring low-carbon solutions needed to support the country’s net zero goals.”
Photo: SSE Thermal's Tarbert site in Co. Kerry. (Pic: Supplied)
