Coal-fuelled Moneypoint may be needed to produce more power during cold snap  

As Cop28 gets underway, the Co Clare power station is likely to step up production to fill the gap left by becalmed wind turbines

A cyclist enjoying the Ring of Clare route on the Wild Atlantic Way with Moneypoint power station in the distance. The coal-fuelled power station is likely to step up production during the cold snap to fill the gap left by renewables. Picture: Brian Arthur

The giant coal-fuelled Moneypoint power station is likely to be used to produce additional power to meet the all-Ireland grid's electricity need in the coming days, helping to offset a fall-off in power supply from renewables as the wind calms, and meeting extra demand as a cold snap settles in across the country.

The Co Clare power station is one of the largest generators across Ireland and runs throughout the year. It can generate additional power when stepped up to its full capacity of 900MW to make up the shortfall from other electricity sources — such as from wind-generated power, when the wind doesn't blow.