€12 million Aurivo investment to boost Green Energy on Mayo/Roscommon border

A €12 million renewable energy investment at a major dairy facility in Ballaghaderreen, has been officially launched, marking a significant boost for both the local economy and climate action efforts in the region.

Alan Dillon, Minister of State, announced the project at the Aurivo Dairy Ingredients plant, describing it as one of the most important climate-focused investments in the West this year.

The development, led by Aurivo Co-operative Society and co-funded under the Shared Island Sustainability Capital Grant Scheme, will see the introduction of a new renewable biomass energy system at the site.

Once operational, the system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 7,500 tonnes of CO₂ annually, while significantly cutting the plant’s reliance on fossil fuels.

The project will be powered by locally sourced, sustainably certified wood pellets, strengthening regional supply chains and supporting indigenous industry.

READ MORE: Mayo Greenway landowners to deny access to land for survey

Minister Dillon said the investment demonstrates the impact of collaboration between government and industry.

“This €12 million investment by Aurivo is a powerful example of what can be achieved when industry and Government work together with ambition and purpose,” he said.

He added that the initiative would ensure economic benefits remain within local communities while also delivering long-term energy certainty for the cooperative’s dairy operations.

The construction and commissioning phases are also expected to create employment opportunities across engineering, construction and supply chain sectors in the region.

The investment has been welcomed as a strong vote of confidence in Ballaghaderreen and the wider west of Ireland, with Minister Dillon highlighting its importance for rural development.

“For Ballaghaderreen and the wider West, this investment is hugely significant. It supports local employment, strengthens the regional economy, and underpins the prosperity of over 10,000 farmers who rely on Aurivo,” he said.

READ MORE: New regional data reveals Mayo’s growth continues despite pressures

The project places Aurivo at the forefront of sustainable dairy processing in Ireland, as the cooperative continues to invest in technologies that balance environmental responsibility with economic growth.

Minister Dillon concluded by saying the development sets an example for future projects across the country.

“This project shows what the West can achieve. It is a model for how we build a sustainable, secure and competitive economy for the future,” he said.

Pictured above are, from left: Donal Tierney, CEO Aurivo Co-Operative; Stephen Blewitt, General Manager for Dairy; Marty Dervin, Project and Energy Manager; Minister Alan Dillon, TD; Cathal Garvey, Vice Chairperson, Aurivo Co-Operative; Raymond Barlow, Chairperson, Aurivo Co-Operative; Willie Murphy, Site Lead, Ballaghaderreen and Brendan Moran, Sustainability Lead.