Planning submitted for SSE Thermal’s proposed new sustainable biofuels power station in County Meath

SSE Thermal has submitted a planning application for Platin Power Station, a proposed new plant in County Meath which would run on sustainable biofuels and support security of supply.

The proposed 170MW plant – consisting of three separate units – would operate on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a sustainable biofuel produced from waste oils and aligned with EU sustainability standards. The technology offers a fossil-free alternative to traditional distillate oil and the plant would have the potential to convert to low-carbon hydrogen in the future.

Platin Power Station, which could be operational by September 2026 subject to a positive planning outcome and Final Investment Decision, holds a 10-year capacity agreement which is due to commence in the 2026/27 delivery year. This was secured in a recent competitive auction designed to ensure Ireland has enough generation capacity to meet its expected electricity demand. 

Ahead of the planning application being submitted to Meath County Council, SSE Thermal held a consultation event in Duleek where it met with members of the local community to outline its plans for Platin Power Station and to receive feedback.

SSE Thermal is also developing a new power station which would run on sustainable biofuels at its existing Tarbert site in County Kerry. The project at Tarbert, which also has a 10-year capacity agreement, is expected to enter planning later this year.

Catherine Raw, Managing Director of SSE Thermal, said: “Our proposed Platin Power Station can support Ireland’s security of supply, adding much needed additional capacity to the system while providing a clear bridge to a low-carbon future. At SSE Thermal, we are committed to delivering the next generation of power assets and believe that Platin can help to build a more resilient and cleaner energy future in County Meath and beyond.”