Plans to build a €650 million LNG terminal in Shannon

Despite a move by the government last month to prevent Ireland from importing fracked gas, new plans to build a €650 million liquefied natural gas terminal in the Shannon estuary are to be submitted to An Bord Pleanála.

When evaluating any planning application planning authorities must have regard to relevant Government policy. Nevertheless, a legal ban on the importation of fracked gas cannot be put in place at this time as it would require changes to international rules.

Eamon Ryan, the minister for the environment, said: “It would not be appropriate to permit or proceed with development of any LNG terminals in Ireland, including the Shannon LNG project.

“This position was pending a review of the security of energy supply for Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems.”

Shannon LNG, the New York-based global energy infrastructure company had a previous application for the development at its Shannon Technology and Energy Park quashed by the High Court last year. 

Shannon LNG said the terminal would import LNG, which is natural gas that has been cooled to approximately -160 degrees to reduce its volume and facilitate shipping. 

A floating storage and regasification unit would be moored at a jetty to receive and store the LNG. The terminal would then regasify the LNG and send the gas to the power plant and to the national gas grid.

Sam Abdalla, vice president of project development at New Fortress Energy, said: “The project will be transformative for the region.

“This first phase of development – the €650 million power plant and terminal – will create 270 construction jobs over a three-year construction period with 70 long-term jobs, once operational.” 

For more information visit www.pleanala.ie

24th June 2021