Page 4 - GLNG Week 43

GLNG COMMENTARY GLNG
Shannon LNG project under pressure from opposition
The proposed Shannon LNG project is running into environmental opposition amid news that it could be fast-tracked
PROJECTS & COMPANIES
WHAT:
New Fortress Energy’s Shannon LNG project has encountered strong environmental opposition.
WHY:
The scheme has been listed as a project
of common interest (PCI) by the European Commission.
WHAT NEXT:
Ireland’s government is planning a security of supply review before allowing the project to proceed any further.
THE proposed Shannon LNG project is running into opposition as its backer, US-based New Fortress Energy, tries to move it forward. Recent news that the project may be fast-tracked led to an outcry by environmentalists, who oppose construction of the import terminal on the grounds that it would import US LNG, which uses shale gas as feedstock. Hydraulic fracturing – the technique used to extract oil and gas from shale formations – has been banned in Ireland, and opponents of Shannon LNG claim it would be hypocritical for the country to import shale gas from elsewhere instead.
Responding to the criticism, Irish Minister for Climate Action and Environment Richard Brutonsaid:“Atthisstage,otherthanthestream- lining of the permit granting processes, the only practical benefit to Shannon LNG being des- ignated as a project of common interest (PCI) is the possibility of applying to the Connecting Europe Facility for grant aid.”
However, Bruton also said the government would not support any grant application for European Union funding by the Shannon LNG
project until “a security of supply review has been completed and considered” by both the government and the Irish legislature.
“Ireland is one of the most dependant coun- tries on fossil fuels,” Bruton said, adding that the government had a fundamental duty to protect the country’s energy security.
“In the next decade we will fully exit from peat and coal to generate electricity and we will reach 70% renewable electricity. In making these critical changes, we must ensure our energy security is maintained. It is critical to protect- ing our people, our homes, our farms and our businesses.”
The remaining 30% is still expected to be gen- erated from fossil fuels, with Bruton noting that back-up supply would also be required to make up any renewable shortfalls.
Bruton used an example of a recent 30-day period, when wind generation supplied 25% of Ireland’s electricity. Over this period, one day wind power accounted for only 4% of electric- ity provided and on another day it accounted for 62%. Gas is likely to continue being used for
A map on Shannon LNG’s website shows potential routes LNG tankers could take to the terminal.
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Week 43 31•October•2019