The Corrib gas field, located off Ireland’s west coast, is managed by Vermilion Exploration and Production Ireland with collaborators Equinor and Nephin Energy. Annually, it meets about 20% of Ireland’s natural gas needs.
Repurposing Potential
Worley, an international engineering consultancy, was tasked with evaluating the best methods to repurpose this field along with the Bellanaboy Gas Terminal infrastructure. The focus is on renewable energy options, including wind, wave, energy storage, hydrogen, and e-fuels.
Key Options and Advantages
According to Nephin Energy’s CEO Tom O’Brien, the consultancy identified several promising options, with significant emphasis on wind energy and hydrogen. The Corrib site is advantageous due to its large industrial area, gas Networks Ireland pipeline access, high wind energy potential, and skilled workforce.
Further Studies and Goals
The companies are proceeding with further studies to evaluate these renewable options’ technical and commercial viability. O’Brien emphasized that repurposing successfully would ensure the continued utility of Corrib’s infrastructure, originally costing over €3 billion, supporting Ireland’s energy transition beyond natural gas.
Vermilion Ireland’s managing director Jarlath Trench highlighted Corrib’s crucial role in Ireland’s energy transition, noting its brownfield footprint, pipeline access, wind energy proximity, and experienced workforce.
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