Energy firm unveils €2bn Carlow storage project

Irish firm Net Zero Energy (NZE) has unveiled plans for a major €2 billion long-duration energy storage project in County Carlow. The proposed Rathrush Green Energy Park, located near Tullow, aims to address Ireland's energy challenges by storing surplus renewable electricity.

“

The project presents an important as well as timely solution to the current pressing and complex energy dilemma facing the country, both in terms of security of supply and decarbonising our grid.

The facility will utilize a process called hydrolysis to separate hydrogen from wastewater using excess power generated by wind and solar farms. This renewable energy is currently often wasted due to grid limitations and lack of demand. The generated hydrogen will be compressed and stored in lined rock caverns deep underground.

When electricity demand rises, particularly during periods of low wind or solar generation, the stored hydrogen will be released. It will then fuel a gas turbine power plant on-site to produce reliable, clean electricity, ensuring renewable energy is returned to the grid when most needed. The project is designed for a peak output of 600 megawatts for 70 hours, capable of meeting 10% of Ireland's peak electricity demand and supplying the combined needs of Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, and Wexford counties.

“

Moreover, by harnessing an energy source which was heretofore being wasted, we can insulate consumers from future fossil fuel crises and price shocks such as we saw in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and more recently in the Middle East.

NZE estimates the project will save 180,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, equivalent to removing 40,000 cars from the road. Construction is expected to create up to 1,500 jobs, with approximately 70 long-term, skilled positions once operational. NZE CEO Peter Harte stated the project offers a timely solution for energy security and grid decarbonization, insulating consumers from future fossil fuel price shocks.

“

By delivering a national solution helping Ireland on its journey to energy independence, it simultaneously provides reassurance and confidence for high-end electricity users seeking to locate here in Ireland.

NZE Chairman Tim Cowhig added that the project's ability to provide 600MW of renewable energy on demand offers reassurance to high-end electricity users considering locating in Ireland. Following community consultation, NZE hopes to submit a planning application by the end of the year.

“

By making available 600MW of renewable energy at the flick of a switch, this project can satisfy as much as 10% of Ireland’s pe