Taoiseach Micheál Martin has endorsed plans for Galway to become the State's first "hydrogen hub".
The plan was outlined when Mr Martin gave the keynote speech at a conference hosted by the Port of Galway.
A "hydrogen hub" is a city or region dedicated to developing hydrogen as an alternative energy source, with offshore wind being a key factor.
Hydrogen can be produced when renewable electricity is used to split water into its component parts of hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis.
The Galway Hydrogen Hub - dubbed GH2 - will involve combining the resources and expertise of seven groups, including the Port of Galway and NUI Galway.
Also involved are CIÉ/Bus Éireann, Aran Island Ferries, the Lasta Mara Teo transport company, Aer Arann Islands and SSE Renewables.