Project Snapshot 

National LDES Target (2030)       Initial Procurement                    Responsible TSO                                                   500 MW                                           201 MW                                        EirGrid 

Policy                                                                                  ESI Recommendation  

Electricity Storage Policy Framework                          15-year contract 

Energy Storage Ireland (ESI), the representative Organization for Ireland’s storage sector, provided its response to the Government’s consultation on Long-Duration Energy Storage (LDES) procurement. It stated that Ireland needs a clear pathway from EirGrid, electricity Transmission System Operator (TSO) to deliver the Government’s 500 MW target for 2030. 

The consultation under Ireland’s Electricity Storage Policy Framework (ESPF), specifically Action 6, proposes an initial procurement of 201 MW for long-duration storage. ESI noted this represents progress but falls well short of the Government’s 500 MW target for 2030. 

Pat Lambert, Policy Analyst at Energy Storage Ireland, stated that long-duration storage has supported system stability by reducing curtailment during high renewable output. He added that increased storage has lowered reliance on imported fuels during tight supply periods. The organization stated that higher procurement volumes would support greater use of renewable generations. It added that additional long-duration capacity during lower-supply periods would help maintain a more efficient and flexible electricity system. 

Bobby Smith, CEO at ESI, noted that the proposed 10-year contract period does not align with international LDES schemes, which typically offer longer terms. The association proposed to increase the length of the contract to 15 years to enhance investment certainty and manage financing risks. 

ESI concluded that refinements to the procurement mechanism would support greater use of renewable generation and improve system flexibility. It added that such adjustments would help Ireland progress toward its 2030 energy storage target.