The ESB has confirmed that coal generation at Moneypoint power station in Co Clare has officially ended, bringing to a close over 40 years of coal-fired electricity production.
In a statement published on Friday, the semi-state electricity company said it was continuing with plans to convert the plant into a renewable energy hub, and confirmed that Moneypoint would now operate using oil as a backup fuel source when required.
“This is not just a significant move for ESB but also for the country as a whole as Ireland powers forward to deliver the clean energy transition underpinned by a secure electricity system,” said Climate Minister Darragh O’Brien.
The press release stated that coal burning at Moneypoint had ended “earlier than planned,” and described the development as “a significant milestone” in ESB’s strategy to reach net-zero carbon emissions.
Energy Minister of State Timmy Dooley said the station would remain a key part of the country’s energy mix over the coming years, despite the move away from coal.
“The early end of coal generation at Moneypoint represents a significant milestone for ESB and is another important step in Ireland’s energy transformation,” Dooley said.
“It is the people of the Mid-West that have made this possible and I am delighted that the site will continue to play a critical role in securing Ireland’s electricity supply for a number of years to come, before transforming into a renewable energy hub to meet the future zero carbon needs of the country.”
The ESB’s Chief Executive, Paddy Hayes, also marked the occasion at the site in Clare.
“Marking the end of coal generation in Moneypoint is an important milestone in ESB’s progress towards net zero,” Hayes said.
“It is a significant step in Moneypoint’s transformation into a renewable energy hub, supporting a low carbon future while continuing to support energy security.
“Moneypoint, the teams working here, and the communities across West Clare have been at the heart of powering Ireland’s electricity system for the best part of 40 years so far – and I would like to thank all those who have played a part in that.
“At ESB, we look forward to continuing to work together, invested in delivering a clean energy future for all.”
EirGrid Chief Executive Cathal Marley said that while coal was no longer in use, Moneypoint would remain in operation until 2029 using oil, to ensure electricity supply when demand is high.
“Today is a significant milestone for our electricity system, marking the end of coal generation at Moneypoint and in Ireland,” Marley said.
“…The units will operate using oil as the primary fuel source and will support the overall adequacy position for Ireland, alongside the other measures in CRU’s Security of Supply Programme.”
Moneypoint was originally built in the 1980s to reduce Ireland’s reliance on oil in the wake of the 1970s energy crisis.
Critics of the transition have warned that the closure of coal-fired generation, while reducing emissions, may leave Ireland more vulnerable to electricity shortages in the short term – particularly during periods of low wind or cold weather, when renewable sources are underperforming.
Moneypoint’s reduced availability and reliance on oil backup has also raised questions about energy affordability and the pace of infrastructure upgrades needed to maintain grid stability.