Biomass power plant in Killala a major jobs boost

Major jobs boost ahead for north Mayo


Trevor Quinn

The jobs outlook for many in Mayo has received a major shot in the arm, with Mayo County Council granting planning permission for the construction of a new biomass power station near Killala. When completed, Mayo Power Ltd is expected to create 220 full-time jobs, while 200 temporary building posts will be generated during its two-year construction.
The 50MW power station will be fuelled by 100 per cent biomass, some of which it is envisaged will be grown locally. The full time positions will be created both directly and indirectly – 26 direct jobs, 75 ancillary positions and 120 indirect jobs from growing, harvesting and the delivery of biomass to the plant.
Cllr Jarlath Munnelly has welcomed the decision and stated that this project could prove to be a lifeline for the North Mayo area. “I don’t have to remind anyone that North Mayo, like a lot of the country, is losing many young people to emigration. A major project like Mayo Power has the potential to offer real, sustainable employment for many people in this area, and that has to be welcomed.”
Cllr Munnelly also added that Mayo County Council have placed a number of conditions on the project that will ensure that the local environment and the surrounding community is protected. “There are 84 conditions added to this project, including a request to establish a project management committee; a survey of the Killala-Ballina road prior to construction work; and an annual levy to fund road improvements.”
Other conditions include improving the junction between the main road and the plant, and the construction of a footpath between the site and Killala.
The Killala Chamber and Development Association has welcomed the announcement and described it as a massive boost for the region at a time when investment is scarce.
In a statement, the organisation said: “Renewable energy can play a huge role in helping this country out of recession, and this project will unite workers and local growers of biomass in moving forward with renewed confidence.”
Cllr Munnelly said he is hopeful that the construction phase of the project will start as soon as possible. It is estimated that the project will employ in excess of 200 people which will be a massive boost for the area.
The organisation will hold an open day for the plant’s constructors over the coming weeks, with the aim of giving local subcontractors a chance to discuss the project with the builders.