International experts have specified several feasible strategies for repurposing the Corrib gasfield, located off the western coast, with a particular focus on harnessing wind energy and hydrogen. Currently, Vermilion Exploration and Production Ireland administers operations on the field with the collaboration of Equinor and Nephin Energy.
Recently, the stakeholders requested Worley, an acclaimed international engineering consultancy, to undertake a study to determine the ideal strategies for reusing both the field and the infrastructural offerings of the Bellanaboy Gas Terminal in upcoming years.
The Corrib gasfield makes up roughly a fifth of Ireland’s yearly requirements for natural gas. The scope of the study extended to over 20 technical possibilities in the area of renewable energy, incorporating wind, wave, energy storage, hydrogen, and e-fuels.
Nephin Energy’s CEO, Tom O’Brien, stated the study’s objective to single out the most favourable suggestions to proceed towards intricate evaluation and development. O’Brien highlighted the unique advantages the Corrib gasfield provides, such as an expansive industrial footprint, a dedicated connection to the Gas Networks Ireland’s pipeline system, and a highly skilled and experienced workforce, alongside the highest wind potential location in Ireland.
The findings of Worley’s assessment revealed some predominating options that primarily involved wind energy and hydrogen. Further research will now be initiated by the field’s operators to investigate the technical and commercial feasibility of these potentials.
O’Brien pointed out the importance of a successful repurposing project in guaranteeing the enduring relevance of Corrib’s infrastructure—which cost more than €3 billion to develop—in Ireland’s journey towards a cleaner energy future, long after the depletion of natural gas.
Jarlath Trench, Vermilion Ireland’s Managing Director, championed the Corrib facility for offering numerous advantages for Ireland’s energy transition and the economic growth of the western regions of the country. He listed the field’s significant brownfield footprint in northwest Connacht, easy access to the Gas Networks Ireland gas transmission network, close proximity to significant onshore and offshore wind energy potential, and its workforce, highly skilled and with a demonstrated proficiency in the safe operation of one of Ireland’s most notable pieces of energy infrastructure.