Gas Networks Ireland and Bord na Móna have announced measures to reduce carbon emissions from the Edenderry Renewable Energy Complex in Co Offaly by 40% by 2029.
It will involve switching from diesel powered generators to natural gas by the end of this decade, and ultimately to renewable energy.
The Offaly complex supports the national energy grid at times of high demand. Last year it ceased burning peat and has been using biomass instead.
The plan, announced today, will involve the construction of a 22km steel transmission pipeline to connect the Edenderry complex to the gas network.
"The Transmission Connection project is currently in its preliminary planning and development phase, with construction expected to start in 2027," according to a joint statement from Bord Na Móna and Gas Networks Ireland.
The pipeline is anticipated to be fully operational in 2029. Gas Networks Ireland said it intends to engage local communities and "host public information evenings over the coming weeks to share more details about the project and its benefits".
Speaking on RTÉ's News at One, Head of Renewable Energy At Bord Na Mona John Reilly said: "Initially the project will facilitate the transmission of natural gas, with a shift to renewable gases over time."
He said the grid connection would enable the integration of both natural gas and renewable gas including biomethane and green hydrogen, into the fuel mix at the Co Offaly renewable energy complex.
Mr Reilly said that 150 jobs were created as part of projects transitioning Bord Na Móna to renewable energy.
Emphasising the significance of the partnership, Gas Networks Ireland's newly appointed Director of Assets and Infrastructure Brian Sheehan said: "The gas network plays a critical role in Ireland’s energy landscape, and this connection for Bord na Móna marks a significant step towards a greener future.
"The gas network can be adapted to transport zero-carbon gases, such as green hydrogen. It has already transformed once, from carrying town gas to natural gas over 40 years ago, and more recently adapted to biomethane when it was first introduced onto the Irish network in 2019."
