Stark warning in application  seeking to convert Moneypoint from coal-burning to one powered by HFO

It is possible extended power outages could occur to cover the Winter peaks in the period 2024 to 2029 if conversion does not happen

The planning application includes the construction of two HFO tanks each with a capacity of 25,000 tonnes and the construction phase will result in the creation of 90 to 100 jobs.

If the 900MW Moneypoint coal-burning power station in West Clare doesn’t convert to Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) to produce electricity, "it is possible that extended power outages could occur to cover the Winter peaks in the period 2024 to 2029".

That is the stark warning contained in a new ESB strategic infrastructure development (SID) Moneypoint ‘Security of Supply’ application lodged with An Bord Pleanála seeking to convert Moneypoint from a coal-burning power generating station to one powered by HFO for the years 2024 to 2029.