Corrib Gas partners to explore renewable energy hub at Bellanaboy site

THE partners of the Corrib Gas Field in north Mayo have announced plans to develop a sustainable energy plan to explore the potential for establishing a renewable energy hub at the Bellanaboy site.

Corrib’s Joint Venture partners, Vermilion Exploration and Production Ireland Limited and Nephin Energy Limited, announced the launch of the Atlantic Energy @ Corrib initiative.

This initiative aims to develop a sustainable energy plan for the Bellanaboy facility and since the announcement was made in August, the Corrib partners claim the Atlantic Energy @ Corrib initiative has made significant strides.

The project has advanced through the technical and economic screening of various development options, assessing how best to repurpose the field and its infrastructure from natural gas to renewable energy production. These screenings, conducted by international engineering consultants, evaluated a range of energy projects, including wind energy, hydrogen, and hydrogen-related derivatives.

Building on these findings, the Corrib partners are now assessing the economic viability and undertaking more detailed investigations to determine the most feasible path forward. This next phase focuses on the commercial and technology feasibility assessments of the various projects under consideration. This will involve engaging with local, government and industry stakeholders.

“Vermilion and our partners Nephin Energy are excited about the progress of the Atlantic Energy @ Corrib initiative,” said Jarlath Trench, Managing Director of Vermilion Ireland.

“The Corrib facility presents numerous advantages for Ireland’s energy transition and the economic development of the West of Ireland. These include its substantial brownfield footprint in Northwest Connacht, direct access to the Gas Networks Ireland gas transmission network, proximity to significant onshore and offshore wind energy potential, and an experienced workforce with a proven track record in the safe operation of one of Ireland’s largest pieces of energy infrastructure,” he said.

The Corrib Gas field is Ireland's sole indigenous source of natural gas and currently, the field contributes approximately 20 percent of Ireland’s annual natural gas requirement.

Tom O’Brien, Group Chief Executive of Nephin Energy added: “At Nephin Energy, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable energy solutions for Ireland as evidenced by this initiative and the recent creation of our new business Nephin Renewable Gas. Projects like Atlantic Energy @ Corrib will not only support Ireland's energy transition but also bring long-term benefits to the communities in north Mayo.

“The progress we've made with the AtlanticEnergy@Corrib initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. We look forward to continuing our work with all stakeholders to harness the full potential of the Corrib Gas Field infrastructure, transforming it into a cornerstone of Ireland’s renewable energy future,” he said.