More than 600 jobs are to be created in a new green energy hub at the old Moneypoint power station.

In one of the country’s largest climate change projects, ESB will build a floating wind farm that will provide electricity to 1.6 million homes.

The first phase will be ready and connected to the grid by 2030.

It will be based off the coasts of Clare and Kerry and fueled by the infamous South West Atlantic winds that bombard Ireland’s west coast from year end to year.

Environment and Climate Minister Eamon Ryan confirmed 600 jobs during the construction phase in response to a question from Sinn Fein Clare TD Violet-Anne Wynne>

He said; “ESB has confirmed as part of its green hub plan at Moneypoint that they are developing a 1400 MW floating wind farm off the coast of Clare and Kerry counties, in partnership with Equinor.

“The first phase of their two planned wind farms will be commissioned by 2028 subject to the appropriate consents and success at the relevant auctions.

“This will significantly contribute to Ireland’s goal of at least 5 GW of grid-connected offshore wind by 2030 and, when completed, the wind farm will be able to power over 1.6 million homes in Ireland.

“The construction of an offshore wind farm is a highly specialized activity that includes both onshore and offshore activities.

“Based on similar projects elsewhere, ESB estimates that employment during construction will be close to 600 people.

“On an ongoing basis, ESB evaluates all available technologies for technical and commercial feasibility.”

ESB boss Pat O’Doherty has predicted that Moneypoint’s new green hub will bring huge benefits to the Midwest and make the Shannon Estuary the center of floating wind farms in Europe.

He said; “Our strategy for a better future is rooted in the ambition to lead the transition to a low carbon energy future. The transformation of Moneypoint will be a major step in achieving this.

“We have long chosen to stop burning coal at Moneypoint and this redesigned location will not only create hundreds of jobs, but will also help Ireland meet its climate targets and secure electricity supplies into the future. “

Moneypoint is on the River Shannon just outside of Kilrush, Co Clare, and was Ireland’s largest power station.