Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
125. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the public consultation process undertaken, the estimated life span of the terminal, the estimated cost and so on of the proposed gas terminal on the Shannon. [27244/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn March 2025, I received Government approval to develop a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve. The delivery of a gas reserve is critical to Ireland’s energy security as we continue to transition to indigenous, clean renewable energy. Crucially, the strategic gas emergency reserve will also ensure compliance with EU standards and regulations.
In identifying this as the optimal approach, my Department built upon the extensive review of security of Ireland’s gas and electricity systems which was approved by Government in the 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' plan in November 2023. As part of the analysis, the report included a major public consultation exercise with over 450 responses that were reviewed and influenced the final report, which is published in Annex 3 on gov.ie.
The strategic gas emergency reserve is being introduced to address Ireland’s security of gas supply risk. The operation of the reserve will be underpinned by both policy and legislation that my Department is currently developing which will address end of life provisions. The disposal or repurposing of this facility will be informed by the resolution of the energy risk for which this measure was introduced.
Gas Networks Ireland are now progressing the project through detailed design and market engagement to determine the final costs to deliver this strategic gas emergency reserve. The final investment decision will be subject to Government approval and will be supported by independent assessments undertaken by financial and commercial advisory authority NewERA, as well as the Commission for Regulation of Utilities.
This Government remains committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and has greatly boosted the share of renewables in our increasingly electrified energy system. Ireland has recently reached 8GW of renewable electricity capacity and almost 50% of electricity came from renewable sources in February this year.
