Overview
Tawnaghmore is a 104 MW diesel power plant in Ireland, operated by Endesa. It provides operational capacity to the Irish grid.
Tawnaghmore is a diesel power plant located in Ireland, with an operational capacity of 104 megawatts. Owned by Endesa, the facility plays a role in the country's power generation mix, contributing to grid stability and peak demand management. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the European Union's Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits for large combustion plants. As a diesel-fired facility, it uses oil as its primary fuel, a common choice for peaking plants due to its quick start-up capabilities. The technology employed is typical for medium-scale diesel generation, offering flexibility to balance intermittent renewable sources. Environmentally, the plant's diesel fuel source results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewables. Its location in rural Ireland may reduce direct population exposure, but emissions contribute to national greenhouse gas totals. The facility's operational status ensures it remains available for grid support, particularly during periods of high demand or low renewable output.
Environmental context
The plant's use of diesel fuel results in significant CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per unit of electricity generated. Its location in rural County Mayo, near the coast, may influence local air quality but reduces direct impact on densely populated areas. The facility operates under EU emission standards, requiring compliance with Best Available Techniques (BAT) for large combustion plants.
Frequently asked questions
Tawnaghmore power plant is located in Ireland, near the town of Ballina in County Mayo, with coordinates 54.1934 N, -9.2206 W.
Tawnaghmore is a diesel power plant, using oil as its primary fuel to generate electricity. It has a capacity of 104 megawatts.
Tawnaghmore power plant is owned by Endesa, a major energy company operating in Europe.
Diesel power plants in Ireland must comply with the EU Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits for SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. They also fall under the EU Emissions Trading System for CO2.
As a 104 MW diesel plant, Tawnaghmore provides flexible generation capacity, helping to meet peak demand and support grid stability when renewable sources like wind are low.