asked the Minister for Energy if he will make a statement in relation to the proposed new ESB power station near Slane, Co. Meath, indicating (a) the size of the station, (b) the type of fuel it will use, (c) the areas it will serve, (d) when work on the building will commence, and (e) the proposed date of completion.
Written Answers - Slane (Meath) ESB Station.
183.
The ESB, as part of a continuing programme, regularly review the current and expected growth of electricity demand which could require the strengthening of supply in either whole regions or in particular areas.
Studies of such growth patterns in the Meath-Louth area led to the tentative conclusion that if the level of growth expected is attained it could be desirable in the medium term to strengthen supply in the area at peak periods.
No decision has been taken as to the necessity for a generating station or as to its timing.
If one were required it would most likely consist of 3×100MW combustion turbines fired by oil or liquid petroleum gas. The power would be fed into the national transmission grid at times of peak demand in the area.
Any decision on construction of new generating plant by the ESB would be taken only after consultation with me. I would have to be satisfied that any proposed plant was in line with policies which I am formulating to achieve the most economic and efficient use of all energy sources in the national interest.