Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 20 Nov 1991

Vol. 413 No. 2

Written Answers. - Allenwood (Kildare) ESB Station.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

92 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Energy if he has satisfied himself as to the cost efficiency of electricity produced at Allenwood, County Kildare; if so, if he will outline the benefits of the continued use of the stations contribution to the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

94 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Energy if he has issued any directive to the ESB in relation to the continued operation of the ESB generating station at Allenwood, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Question Nos. 92 and 94 together.

The station at Allenwood is well past its projected useful lifespan; it has a low plant load factor and operates at low thermal efficiency. The cost of the electricity generated there is considerably in excess of that produced in other more modern and efficient generating stations. The details are published in the ESB's annual reports.

An important element of the Government's energy policy is the development of our indigenous energy resources. Apart from reducing our reliance on imported fuels, and thus improving the balance of payments position, the development of indigenous resources also adds to the delivery of fuels in the Irish market, leading to an improved security of supply.

I have informed the House previously of the terms of the Government's decision, taken in August 1990, that the ESB will continue to operate the power station and Bord na Móna will supply turf to the station as long as supplies from the local Bord na Móna bogs permit. The ESB were also informed of the Government's decision in this regard.

I have also informed the House previously that the continued operation of the station is contingent on the ESB being able to continue operating there, having regard to the age of the station, the possibility of a major breakdown occurring, and the safety of the employees and of the general public.