An Bord Pleanála has approved planning permission for Shannon LNG Limited to develop a 600-megawatt power plant in Co Kerry, marking a significant step for energy infrastructure in the region.
The project, which includes a power plant, a 120-megawatt battery energy storage system, and a re-gasification unit, will be constructed on a 630-acre site between Tarbert and Ballylongford. The approval follows a previous legal battle after the High Court overturned an earlier refusal by An Bord Pleanála last September.
Legal Challenges and High Court Ruling
Initially, An Bord Pleanála had rejected the project, stating that it contradicted government policy and was inappropriate pending a review of energy supply. However, the High Court ruled that this decision was based on an interpretation of policy rather than an official state directive. The court also highlighted that the planning board had not sufficiently considered the Kerry County Development Plan and other relevant policies supporting energy security.
Following the judicial review, led by Shannon LNG, a subsidiary of US-based New Fortress Energy, An Bord Pleanála granted permission under Section 37G of the Planning and Development Act 2000, subject to several conditions. Reports indicate the planning board is considering appealing the High Court’s ruling.
Local Leaders Welcome Development
Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, and Kerry TD Norma Foley welcomed the decision, highlighting the potential for job creation.
“The land bank in Tarbert has been ripe for development for many decades. The granting of planning permission for this project has the potential to bring significant employment opportunities to the area,” she said.
Fine Gael Kerry County Councillor Michael Foley also praised the decision, calling it “brilliant news” for the landbank. He emphasized that the approval could serve as a catalyst for further economic development and urged An Bord Pleanála not to appeal the High Court ruling.
“This will mean huge employment opportunities for North Kerry and be a major boost for the local economy,” he added.
Environmental Concerns Raised
Despite political support, environmental groups have strongly criticized the decision. Friends of the Irish Environment accused An Bord Pleanála of disregarding Ireland’s Climate Act, which mandates that planning decisions align with climate neutrality goals.
“By locking us into more fossil fuels, the planning appeals board has directly and purposely ignored our Climate Act,” said Director Tony Lowes.
Similarly, Safety Before LNG, a group that has long opposed the project, called the approval “highly inappropriate,” pointing out that the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal application remains under legal review in the High Court.
As debates over energy security and environmental sustainability continue, the Shannon LNG power plant is set to be a focal point in Ireland’s energy policy discussions in the coming months.
