Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 16 May 1991

Vol. 408 No. 6

Written Answers. - Allenwood (Kildare) Power Station.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

60 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline the position in relation to the expected operational lifespan of Allenwood Power Station, County Kildare having regard to (1) his previous announcement and (2) recent developments in the matter; if he will confirm that the station will remain fully operational for the next ten years; if not, the reason; if he intends to take any action to prolong the life of the station; if he can confirm the continuation of employment at the station and at Bord na Móna; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

As I mentioned in my reply to the Deputy on 21 November 1990, the ESB will operate their power station at Allenwood and Bord na Móna will supply turf to the station as long as supplies from the local Bord na Móna bogs permit.

The latest indications are that there are sufficient reserves of sod peat available at the Ballydermot/Timahoe bogs to supply the ESB for the generation of electricity at the Allenwood Power Station for a further three-four years.

The critical factor in relation to Allenwood Station is the ability of the ESB to operate there having regard to the age of the station and the possibility of a major breakdown occurring. Because of this it is not possible to put a definitive timescale on how much longer Allenwood will remain open. However, while operational plans by Bord na Móna and the ESB are being made on a year to year basis every effort shall be made to keep the station going while local turf supply permits.