SSE commits to delivering next generation of power at historic Tarbert site

SSE Thermal, part of the integrated energy group SSE plc, has taken a final investment decision to build Tarbert Next Generation Power Station – opening a new chapter in the site’s proud energy story. 

The 300MW plant in County Kerry will run on 100% sustainable biofuels with the potential to convert to hydrogen, reflecting SSE Thermal’s commitment to supporting the electricity system in Ireland while laying the foundations for a low-carbon future. 

Delivery of Tarbert Next Generation Power Station represents a total capital expenditure investment of up to €300million by SSE Thermal. 

The flexible power generated at Tarbert will help to support Ireland’s energy security while delivering a renewables-led system. The use of sustainable biofuels – specifically Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) – provides a lower carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels and supports the country’s long-term decarbonisation efforts. The HVO will be sourced from 100% waste feedstocks and supplied in line with the EU’s RED II sustainability requirements. 

Enabling works are now underway ahead of full construction commencing later this year with planned completion towards the end of 2027. Planning consent was granted by An Bord Pleanála in October last year, following a robust period of consultation with local stakeholders. The project holds a 10-year capacity agreement which was awarded in 2023. 

Following the investment decision, SSE Thermal has selected Ansaldo Energia and Limerick-headquartered Atlantic Projects Company (APC) as its lead partners on the project. Ansaldo’s AE94.3A turbine will offer the required flexibility and reliability needed for the Open Cycle Gas Turbine plant, while APC will provide balance of plant services.  

The decision to build a new power station at Tarbert follows the closure of the original plant in 2023 in line with environmental requirements, with the site first generating electricity in the late 1960s.  

In addition to Tarbert Next Generation Power Station, SSE Thermal has also delivered a Temporary Emergency Generation (TEG) project at the site at the request of Irish authorities. The 150MW of TEG – which will cease operations no later than March 2028 – was commissioned in January this year. 

Finlay McCutcheon, Managing Director of SSE Thermal, said: “This is a landmark moment for Tarbert, which has a proud history of energy generation dating back almost six decades. In taking this final investment decision, we are underlining our commitment to delivering the next generation of power at the site, supporting Ireland’s electricity system and laying the foundations for a low-carbon future. 

“Our focus now shifts to the safe and timely construction of Tarbert Next Generation Power Station, working closely with our partners at Ansaldo Energia and APC to deliver this vital project. At the same time, we hope to see the new Government in Ireland bring forward the enduring low-carbon solutions needed to support the country’s net zero goals.” 

Stefano Gianatti, Executive Vice President New Units, Ansaldo Energia, said: “We are grateful to SSE Thermal for the confidence it has placed in Ansaldo Energia, which once again proves to be a trusted partner at the forefront of energy security and transition.”  

Charles E. Collins, Managing Director, Atlantic Project Company, said: “At Atlantic Projects Company, we are proud to be part of the transformative journey in Ireland's energy sector through Engineering, Procurement and Construction of the Tarbert Next Generation Power Station. We look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will play a crucial role in the country’s growing need for energy demand.”