The Corrib gas field partners in north Mayo says that plans to develop a renewable energy hub at the Bellanaboy site have made “significant strides”.
The joint partners, Vermilion Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd and Nephin Energy Ltd announced the launch of the Atlantic Energy @ Corrib initiative last month.
“The project has advanced through the technical and economic screening of various development options, assessing how best to repurpose the field and its infrastructure from natural gas to renewable energy production,”they say in a statement issued this week.
“These screenings, conducted by international engineering consultants, evaluated a range of energy projects, including wind energy, hydrogen, and hydrogen-related derivatives,”they statae.
“Building on these findings, the Corrib partners are now assessing the economic viability and undertaking more detailed investigations to determine the most feasible path forward,”they state.
“ This next phase focuses on the commercial and technology feasibility assessments of the various projects under consideration. A crucial element of this stage will involve engaging with local, government and industry stakeholders,”they says.
"Vermilion and our partners Nephin Energy are excited about the progress of the Atlantic Energy @ Corrib initiative," Jarlath Trench, managing director of Vermilion Ireland, said.
"The Corrib facility presents numerous advantages for Ireland’s energy transition and the economic development of the west of Ireland,”he said.
“These include its substantial brownfield footprint in north-west Connacht, direct access to the Gas Networks Ireland gas transmission network, proximity to significant onshore and offshore wind energy potential, and an experienced workforce with a proven track record in the safe operation of one of Ireland’s largest pieces of energy infrastructure,”he said.
“At Nephin Energy, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable energy solutions for Ireland as evidenced by this initiative and the recent creation of our new business Nephin Renewable Gas,”Tom O’Brien, Nephin Energy group chief executive said.
“ Projects like Atlantic Energy @ Corrib will not only support Ireland's energy transition but also bring long-term benefits to the communities in North Mayo,”he said.
“The progress we've made with the AtlanticEnergy @ Corrib initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship,”he said.
“ We look forward to continuing our work with all stakeholders to harness the full potential of the Corrib Gas Field infrastructure, transforming it into a cornerstone of Ireland’s renewable energy future,” O’ Brien said.