Producing cost effective energy consistent with the objectives of the recent Energy White Paper and providing significant social and economic benefits to the region.

Key features of the project include:
The interest to develop this project originated from the following:

Pre–Feasibility Study – In response to a recommendation by the Government sponsored Belmullet Task Force a Pre-Feasibility Study was performed by Bord na Mona (BNM) and Fortum Engineering in 2001 on the merits of building a 30 MW peat fired plant in Mayo. The relevant conclusions were as follows:

  • There is sufficient peat from already developed bogs to supply a 30MW power plant for at least 20 years
  • Peat could be produced at comparable prices to the Midlands
  • The project would generate much needed re-employment

The key recommendations of the study were as follows:

  • Develop a new plant on a CHP basis if possible
  • Examine the possibility of regenerative drying of peat
  • Co-fire peat with other fuel types to achieve a critical mass for power generation (suggested 90MW)
  • To counteract the proposed closure of the Bellacorick Power Station innovative suggestions to promote electricity generation in the region were to be promoted .