As Ireland’s 2020 deadline of 40% renewable clean energy approaches, there is nothing more important then innovation, investment and job creation. Three phrases that must be at the heart of any plan if we are to achieve these aggressive targets.
Around 250 jobs are set to be generated by a proposed €85 million green energy plant for Shannon.
The creation of jobs through constructing and operating the biomass Combined Heat Power (CHP) plant moved a step closer when members of Clare Co Council voted through a zoning 17 to 12 of an 80-acre tract of land on the outskirts of Shannon for “green” industry.
The councillors voted in favour of the zoning in spite of widespread opposition from local residents in the Stonehall area north of Shannon.
Carbon Sole Industries is planning the 70MW plant on the site and yesterday, chief executive of the company, Sean Daly said the firm will be entering pre-planning discussions with the council this summer on its proposed plant.
He said the council “has a very strong, progressive green energy strategy”.
The company has already stated its aim to have the plant operational by the end of 2015. The plant is expected to provide the electricity for Shannon town, the Shannon Free Zone and Shannon airport.
When operational, the plant is expected to generate 50 full-time jobs and 150 to 200 during the construction phase. It is also anticipated that up to 140 jobs will be created through the harvesting and haulage of trees — the raw material for the plant.