Enabling works are now underway ahead of full construction of a new 300MW power station in County Kerry which will run solely on sustainable biofuels, SSE Thermal has announced.

The Tarbert Next Generation Power Station will open a new chapter in the site's proud energy story.

By operating on 100% sustainable biofuels with the potential to convert to hydrogen, the plant will reflect SSE Thermal's commitment to supporting the electricity system in Ireland while laying the foundations for a low-carbon future.

Delivery of Tarbert Next Generation Power Station represents a total capital expenditure investment of up to €300million by SSE Thermal.

Planned completion of the power station is expected towards the end of 2027. Planning consent was granted by An Bord Pleanála in October last year, following a robust period of consultation with local stakeholders. The project holds a 10-year capacity agreement which was awarded in 2023.

Following the investment decision, SSE Thermal has selected Ansaldo Energia and Limerick-headquartered Atlantic Projects Company (APC) as its lead partners on the project.

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Ansaldo’s AE94.3A turbine will offer the required flexibility and reliability needed for the Open Cycle Gas Turbine plant, while APC will provide balance of plant services.

Finlay McCutcheon, Managing Director of SSE Thermal, said: "This is a landmark moment for Tarbert, which has a proud history of energy generation dating back almost six decades.

"In taking this final investment decision, we are underlining our commitment to delivering the next generation of power at the site, supporting Ireland’s electricity system and laying the foundations for a low-carbon future.

"Our focus now shifts to the safe and timely construction of Tarbert Next Generation Power Station, working closely with our partners at Ansaldo Energia and APC to deliver this vital project."

The flexible power generated at Tarbert will help to support Ireland’s energy security while delivering a renewables-led system.

The use of sustainable biofuels – specifically Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) – provides a lower carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels and supports the country’s long-term decarbonisation efforts.

The HVO will be sourced from 100% waste feedstocks and supplied in line with the EU's RED II sustainability requirements.

The decision to build a new power station at Tarbert follows the closure of the original plant in 2023 in line with environmental requirements, with the site first generating electricity in the late 1960s.

In addition to Tarbert Next Generation Power Station, SSE Thermal has also delivered a Temporary Emergency Generation (TEG) project at the site at the request of Irish authorities. The 150MW of TEG – which will cease operations no later than March 2028 – was commissioned earlier this month.