EPH Announces Successful Closure of Coal Units at Kilroot Power Station, Affirms its Commitment to Sustainable Energy Transition
15. 11. 2023
Energetický a průmyslový holding a.s. (EPH), a leading pan-European energy utility, is pleased to announce that the decommissioning of coal units at Kilroot Power Station, Northern Ireland, was completed on 30th September 2023, marking a significant milestone in the transition to cleaner energy in Northern Ireland. This achievement reflects EPH’s steadfast commitment to fostering a sustainable and resilient energy landscape for Northern Ireland.
EPH expresses its sincere appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the numerous staff and contractors who have played a pivotal role in maintaining the safe and effective operation of Kilroot Power Station since its commissioning in 1981, while EPH acquired the power plant through its subsidiary company EP UK Investments Ltd. (EPUKI) in 2019. Over the years, Kilroot Power Station has provided a strategic and important source of electricity for homes and businesses across Northern Ireland and helped to maintain the stability of the power network.
Working closely with regulatory authorities, EP Kilroot Ltd. issued a 3-year closure notice to SONI Ltd. in September 2020, confirming the intention to discontinue the operation of coal-fired electricity generation units, effective from 30th September 2023. Throughout this period, EPUKI has maintained close cooperation with its staff and Unions, actively overseeing the decommissioning process.
With a legacy deeply rooted in the community, the transition from coal to lower carbon gas generation stands as a testament to EPH’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and energy innovation. The ongoing construction of two hydrogen-ready Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) units at Kilroot Energy Park demonstrates EPH’s continued investment in fostering a resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure for Northern Ireland.
“As we close the chapter on Kilroot’s coal units, we honour the legacy of providing stable electricity to Northern Ireland. Our commitment to sustainability unfolds in the decommissioning’s wake, with two new Open Cycle Gas Turbine units at Kilroot Energy Park. This transition signifies our dedication to a cleaner energy future, ensuring stability, resilience, and growth for Northern Ireland.” said Jan Špringl, CEO of EP Power Europe, a.s.
Moving forward, EPH reaffirms its commitment to upholding the highest standards of sustainable energy generation and community engagement, solidifying its position as a key driver of Northern Ireland’s energy transformation.