Pipeline of 22 kilometres set to link Edenderry station with gas grid

Gas Networks Ireland has commenced the planning process for a proposed 22-kilometre underground pipeline connecting Bord na Móna's Edenderry Power facility with the national gas network.

The development at Ballykilleen in Offaly, which was first announced in April, is now moving to the preliminary consultation phase with An Bord Pleanála, ahead of the formal lodging of a planning application at a later stage.

"The project involves the construction of an underground gas transmission pipeline, approximately 22km in length, linking the existing Dublin to Galway high-pressure gas pipeline to Bord na Móna's Edenderry Power Station in Offaly," a Gas Networks Ireland spokesperson told the Offaly Independent on Wednesday.

"Initially, this pipeline will transport natural gas, but it has been designed to accommodate renewable gases such as biomethane and green hydrogen as the gas network transitions to net zero.

"Once operational, the pipeline will enable Edenderry Power Station to switch from its current fuel sources to gas, reducing its CO2 emissions by approximately 40%."

When asked about the possible timeframe for delivery of the project, the spokesperson said: "The project is currently in the planning and development phase.

"Pending the necessary approvals, construction is expected to commence in 2027, with the pipeline anticipated to be fully operational by 2029."

Gas Networks Ireland described the development as, "An important strategic project designed to enhance Ireland's energy infrastructure, with a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions and supporting the transition to renewable energy."

When details of project initially emerged, in April, John Reilly, Head of Renewable Energy at Bord na Móna, said it would have "a transformative effect" on the power station in Edenderry, which is now being described as the Edenderry Renewable Energy Complex.

Mr Reilly said it would "facilitate the transmission of natural gas in the immediate term with an opportunity to shift to renewable gases like green hydrogen and biomethane in the future.

"Our existing diesel generation assets located at the Edenderry Renewable Energy Complex play a key role in supplying 116MW of electricity to the national energy grid during periods of high demand when solar and wind energy availability is limited.

"This development will ensure these generation assets are operating even more sustainably, as one of the largest on-demand renewable electricity generators in Ireland," he said.