The Shannon Estuary announced as the location for Ireland’s Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve

Gas Networks Ireland has confirmed Cahiracon, Co. Clare, along the Shannon Estuary, as the site for Ireland’s new Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (SGER) – a state-led project designed to strengthen Ireland’s energy security.

The site will be developed to include a deep-water jetty for a floating storage regasification unit (FRSU), an onshore facility, and a new connection to the national gas network. 

 

Initially, 14 possible locations around the coastline of Ireland were considered, and from those, three locations were identified. In recent months, our team of engineers and consultants undertook further detailed site assessments at locations in Cork Harbour and the Shannon Estuary. 

 

Each site was evaluated against four specific criteria - technical, environmental, financial and planning. Following this comprehensive multi-criteria and cost-benefit analysis plus its associated pipe route corridor, the site at Cahiracon, Co. Clare, along the Shannon Estuary, was deemed to best meet the project needs. 

Community engagement

Gas Networks Ireland is prioritising meaningful and transparent engagement with the local community throughout the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve project. Our approach includes the following key steps:

  • Public information events. We will host  community events to introduce the SGER project, provide updates, and offer opportunities for direct dialogue with the project team. These  events are  designed to ensure that local voices are heard and considered. Members of the community can ask questions, share concerns, and meet the team delivering the project.
  • Community Liaison Officer. A dedicated officer will be appointed and available on the ground to handle queries, provide updates, and act as a consistent point of contact for the community throughout the duration of the project.
  • Community Benefit Fund. We will launch a community benefit fund and invite local input on how it should be allocated. This could include support for schools, sports clubs, environmental initiatives, or other community priorities.
  • Quarterly Community Newsletter. We will publish a regular newsletter to keep stakeholders informed about project milestones, upcoming events, and engagement opportunities.

Stay updated

To stay up to date with the latest news, project milestones and information, please subscribe to our newsletter by emailing us at SGER@gasnetworks.ie

Note that by emailing the above address, you consent to Gas Networks Ireland processing your contact details, in line with the relevant GDPR regulations. To unsubscribe from receiving newsletter updates, email UNSUB to SGER@gasnetworks.ie

Contact us

For queries relating to the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve, you can contact us at 

Email: SGER@gasnetworks.ie 

Address: Gas Networks Ireland, Gas Networks Road, Cork 

For any press queries, please contact press@gasnetworks.ie