Midlands may become major ‘energy hub’

THE Department of Environment is to examine the potential of using the Midlands as a major hub for renewable energy following recommendations made in a report.

Just Transition Commissioner Kieran Mulvey said that he adopted a ‘whole of Midlands strategic approach’ in a bid to maximise their infrastructural, natural and human resources.

In his first progress report, Mr Mulvey set out a number of proposals including the establishment of a new climate change centre.

Mr Mulvey was appointed as the first Just Transition Commissioner in November 2019 as part of the Government’s climate action plan to help create jobs for workers who have been impacted by climate change. The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton said he will launch the first call for proposals for funding from the ¤11million Just Transition Fund.

The fund is to retrain workers and help local businesses in the Midlands as changes are introduced to move to low carbon.

There are five key priorities, including retraining workers and proposals to generate sustainable employment in the region.

ESB confirmed last November that it is closing two power plants earlier than planned.

Among the proposals is examining the potential for using existing infrastructure in the West Offaly and Lough Ree power plants as an Energy Hub in the Midlands.

There are also plans to grow the existing Midlands network of co-working facilities, through development of additional facilities and hubs through the region.

Mr Mulvey said: ‘There has been a very positive engagement from all the stakeholders in the region and it is vital now that the process can move rapidly to an implementation plan.

‘I have adopted a whole of Midlands strategic approach with what I believe are practical actions across counties to maximise their infrastructural, natural and human resources and building on their existing strengths.’

Mr Bruton said: ‘Securing sustainable employment opportunities for the region and a just transition for those most severely affected must be at the heart of our response,’ and added ‘we must take urgent action in some key areas’.

¤11million fund to retrain workers