Shannon LNG Ltd received approval from An Coimisiún Pleanála in March 2025 to develop the power plant on the landbank but a judicial review against the proposal was brought by the environmental group Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE).
The power plant appeal was successful after two judicial reviews, which those in favour of the project hope will be the final obstacle towards establishing an LNG facility in north Kerry. This is currently before An Coimisiún Pleanála awaiting a decision
Cllr Michael Foley said he wants the national planning group to make its decision ‘as soon as possible’ saying approval for the 600-megawatt power plant is a positive development for the region.
Those in favour of LNG believe it has the potential to support local employment, investment, and ensure a more stable energy supply, especially in the current climate of global energy insecurity while contributing to Ireland’s broader energy strategy.
Cllr Foley believes the High Court decision is a significant milestone, confirming that the planning and environmental assessments are robust, meet all legal requirements and demonstrates the strength and quality of the environmental analysis, particularly around sensitive issues like habitat protection.
“Also, it is encouraging that the court acknowledged the efficiency of the plant design and the role it can play in displacing more carbon-intensive energy sources,” Cllr Foley said.
He said the LNG project had been ‘exhausted to infinitum’, a view shared by Justice Richard Humphreys who noted in his summary that it is one of the most ‘thoroughly litigated projects’ in recent times – this is the seventh written decision relating ‘in one way or another’ to the project.
“While this judgment relates to the power plant, it also provides important clarity that strengthens the LNG terminal currently under consideration,” Cllr Foley added.
Fine Gael Senator Mike Kennelly said the fact the 600-megawatt power plant has withstood two judicial reviews demonstrates the strength of the project. He insisted that attention must now turn to the pending decision on the LNG terminal,
“After years of scrutiny and analysis, it is essential that we move forward without further unnecessary delay,” he said.
Senator Kennelly expressed his appreciation to all those who have supported the project over the years, saying the region is now ‘almost there’ in securing critical energy infrastructure for the future.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Michael Healy-Rae also welcomed the latest developments, saying it is timely for north Kerry and Ireland in an age of energy uncertainty due to global forces.
“North Kerry has a proud industrial and energy heritage, and this development can play a central role in its future. It is essential that we maximise the potential of the Shannon Estuary as a hub for strategic investment, job creation and long-term economic growth,” Minister Healy-Rae said.