Minister visits battery energy storage site in Offaly

The Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O'Brien, today (Tuesday) visited the Cloncreen Battery Energy Storage System site in Offaly, describing it as "the type of flexible, modern infrastructure we will need as Ireland’s renewable capacity continues to grow".

The battery storage site was put in place by BnM (formerly Bord na Mona) which said it's among "a growing suite of energy projects that form part of the company’s 5GW pipeline of renewable energy developments".

BnM added that the Battery Energy Storage System, which is co-located with the Cloncreen Wind Farm, was "central" to its strategy of "delivering large‑scale, flexible renewable infrastructure" across its landbank nationally.

By capturing surplus wind energy during periods of high generation and releasing it back to the grid when demand peaks, the system is designed to help stabilise Ireland’s electricity network and support the integration of increasing volumes of renewable power.

Minister Darragh O’Brien TD said: "It is encouraging to see BnM delivering real, on‑the‑ground solutions that strengthen our renewable energy system today while building out a substantial pipeline for tomorrow.

"This Cloncreen Battery Energy Storage System is not only improving grid stability in the Midlands—it demonstrates the type of flexible, modern infrastructure we will need as Ireland’s renewable capacity continues to grow.

"BnM’s 5GW pipeline of wind, solar and storage projects represent a significant contribution to Ireland’s climate ambitions, regional development and long‑term energy security," Minister O'Brien added.

"Today’s visit shows the positive impact these projects can have—supporting jobs, communities and our national transition to clean energy."

BnM Chief Executive Tom Donnellan said: "Cloncreen Battery Energy Storage System is an important milestone within our 5GW development pipeline and reflects BnM's commitment to delivering the flexible infrastructure required for a decarbonised electricity system.

"As we expand our portfolio of wind, solar and energy storage projects, systems like Cloncreen will ensure that renewable energy is available when it is needed most.

"This project shows how our landbank and long‑term investment strategy are enabling Ireland’s transition to a low‑carbon future," Mr Donnellan added.