- Painting to the upper 100m of both chimneys is due to commence, weather dependent, in August following the completion of a full condition survey of the structures
- Chimneys are no longer in use but remain a part of ESB’s Poolbeg Energy Hub where some of the latest technologies will be deployed to support the future delivery of renewable energy
Friday, 26 July 2024
ESB has today announced details of plans for the ongoing maintenance of the Poolbeg Chimneys which will see the structures repainted by 2025.
The repainting of Poolbeg Chimney’s red and white bands is due to commence, weather dependent, in August and continue through September 2024. All works on the lower parts of the chimneys will take place in late spring 2025 once the weather improves after winter.
The chimneys are no longer in use following the decommissioning of the oil power station onsite over 15 years ago. The structures have become part of ESB’s new Poolbeg Energy Hub where some of the latest technologies that will support the future delivery of renewable energy including batteries, green hydrogen and offshore wind will be deployed over the next decade.
The Poolbeg peninsula has been a key strategic site for the nation’s energy since electricity was first generated from coal at the Pidgeon House station in 1902, with ESB stations in later decades running on oil and gas. The site is set to play an important role in the delivery of ESB’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy as well as facilitating Ireland meeting its emissions reduction targets.
Jim Dollard, ESB Executive Director, Generation and Trading, said: “We are delighted to announce our plans to repaint the Poolbeg Chimneys which were previously a part of the site’s oil power station. While they are no longer in use, the Poolbeg Chimneys remain a well-known landmark for so many people and one of the most recognisable structures in Dublin. The Poolbeg peninsula where the chimneys are located is now home to our Poolbeg Energy Hub. Alongside the existing gas-fired turbine on the site, innovative technologies are being deployed onsite to support our delivery of renewable energy including batteries and in future, green hydrogen and offshore wind, demonstrating ESB’s commitment to a progressive transition to net zero carbon emissions by 2040.”
Over the last number of years, a maintenance programme has been implemented which has included chimney inspections, placing caps on the tops of both chimneys to minimise water ingress, and detailed engineering assessments of the foundations of both chimneys. ESB will continue to work closely with Dublin City Council and other local stakeholders in relation to all future developments at Poolbeg, including the chimneys.
ENDS/