Energy on the Estuary 2026 calls to transform Shannon Estuary Region into a strategic hub

Maria Gleeson, President, Limerick Chamber (left) with Pat Keating, CEO, Shannon Foynes Port Company, Fionnuala Croker, head of office (acting), European Parliament Liaison Office and Donnacha Hurley, CEO, Limerick Chamber, pictured at Energy on the Estuary 2026

Energy on the Estuary 2026 call for urgent action to transform Shannon Estuary Region into a strategic hub ahead of 2026 EU Presidency at Dublin conference

Energy on the Estuary 2026, a major conference focused on Ireland’s industrial future and the strategic importance of the Shannon Estuary Region, took place today at Europe House, Dublin.

Hosted by Limerick Chamber and sponsored by Shannon Foynes Port Company, the event brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders and energy experts to examine energy security, infrastructure and turning Ireland’s geographical advantages into a European industrial powerhouse.

Set against growing national debate around energy infrastructure, discussions focused on the urgent need for long-term investment and coordinated policy to support future demand.

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A central theme was the Shannon Estuary Region’s potential to support offshore wind, large-scale industry and emerging energy needs, positioning Ireland as a leader in renewable energy and a potential net energy exporter.

The conference was opened by keynote speaker Minister Timmy Dooley, who highlighted the importance of national leadership in delivering a secure and sustainable energy system.

Two expert panels explored Ireland’s energy landscape within a European context, as well as infrastructure readiness and the needs of large-scale energy users such as data centres, advanced manufacturing and green fuels.

Realising this potential will require coordinated investment in grid capacity and port infrastructure, and the coordination of energy and industrial policy, alongside more efficient planning and marine and terrestrial consenting processes.

The conference also called on the government to link policy designations with a view to ensuring local planning supports national strategy. The Large Energy User Action Plan and Renewable Acceleration Areas must align with Local Development Plans. The Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy consultation is open and this must be a priority in the forthcoming strategy.

Closing the event, Maria Gleeson, President of Limerick Chamber, emphasised the need to create an “investable ecosystem” that aligns with vital EU directives such as RED III and the establishment of Renewable Acceleration Areas. By integrating port infrastructure, grid capacity, and digital connectivity, Ireland can attract significant investment from the European Investment Bank.

“The ambition is clear. What’s missing is delivery,” said Gleeson. “We must actively position the Shannon Estuary Region as a strategic co-location zone; a place where energy, port infrastructure, grid capacity, digital connectivity, and next-generation industry come together seamlessly.”

Gleeson outlined three practical steps from both government and industry to give investors the confidence to commit capital to Ireland, including linking policy designations directly to local development plans to provide clear, supportive pathways for innovation; streamlining marine and terrestrial consenting processes to efficiently accelerate project timelines; and sequencing vital infrastructure development to proactively attract and secure long-term investment.

“In the second half of 2026, Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This is our moment to show that we’re not just participating in Europe’s transition. We are shaping it,” Gleeson noted.

“We must also address key barriers, including planning delays, grid constraints and infrastructure readiness. With the right action, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create jobs, attract investment and secure a sustainable future.”

The Shannon Estuary Region remains one of Ireland’s most significant yet underutilised assets, with the potential to drive national economic growth while strengthening energy security.

A coordinated national approach, aligning government policy, industry investment and regional development, will be essential to fully realise this opportunity.