Kilrush pinpointed as renewable energy research location

Fine Gael deputy spokesperson on foreign affairs, Pat Breen has suggested in the Dáil that Kilrush would make an ideal location for the establishment of a research facility to develop renewable energy sources, particularly as Moneypoint ESB power station is due to close in 2025.
The Clare TD made his point during a Fine Gael private members motion, which urged the Government to devise an emergency strategy for the allocation of energy resources in the event of a serious disruption of oil or gas supplies.
“We have a rich abundance of natural resources in the Shannon area and estuary, including wind, wave, tidal and solar resources. Algae harvesting can also be done off the coast. CO2 could be filtered through the algae and seaweed, as it is very good for the seaweed. The seaweed could then be used as a biofuel,” he said.
“Deputy Simon Coveney visited Moneypoint last year and saw for himself the environmental retrofit project being completed there by the ESB, which will lead to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. However, the life span of Moneypoint is short and it is expected to close by 2025. Therefore, we must be ready to harness alternative energy sources that can connect to the grid already in place,” Deputy Breen added.
“We have greater potential than many other countries in terms of developing renewable energy resources because we have 10 times as much ocean space as land. What is required now is the necessary investment in technology and a Government commitment to drive this forward and create jobs,” he maintained.