ESB has officially ceased coal-fired power generation at its Moneypoint power station in County Clare, marking a key development in the utility’s broader decarbonisation efforts and long-term transition toward renewable energy.
The closure, which comes ahead of schedule, is part of ESB’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions. Moneypoint will be repurposed into a large-scale renewable energy hub as part of the company’s “Green Atlantic @ Moneypoint” programme, a multi-billion-euro redevelopment plan launched in 2021.
“Marking the end of coal generation in Moneypoint is an important milestone in ESB’s progress towards net zero,” said ESB Chief Executive Paddy Hayes. “It is a significant step in Moneypoint’s transformation into a renewable energy hub.”
Moneypoint, once a cornerstone of Ireland’s electricity generation mix, began shifting away from fossil fuels in 2017 with the installation of a 17MW wind farm. In 2022, ESB completed the first phase of its redevelopment project with a €50 million investment in a synchronous compensator designed to improve the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid.
Minister for Energy Darragh O’Brien welcomed the development, calling it “not just a significant move for ESB but also for the country as a whole as Ireland powers forward to deliver the clean energy transition underpinned by a secure electricity system.”
Although coal operations have ceased, the station will remain operational under a temporary oil-fired arrangement. Under an agreement with grid operator EirGrid, Moneypoint’s units will remain available for emergency use until March 31, 2029. Oil is considered less carbon-intensive than coal, and the facility is expected to operate only during supply shortages.
“It’s important that we maintain a secure supply of electricity,” said Cathal Marley, CEO of EirGrid. “While Moneypoint will no longer use coal, the units will support the overall adequacy position for Ireland.”
The power station, constructed in the 1980s to help reduce reliance on imported oil, has been a key element of Ireland’s energy infrastructure for decades.
“The early end of coal generation at Moneypoint represents a significant milestone for ESB and is another important step in Ireland’s energy transformation,” said Minister of State Timmy Dooley.
Hayes added: “Moneypoint, the teams working here, and the communities across West Clare have been at the heart of powering Ireland’s electricity system for the best part of 40 years – and I would like to thank all those who have played a part in that.
