ESB opens first IPP in Basque region

The internationally owned independent power plant in Spain was opened on Wednesday 19th October by ESB with its partner Osaka Gas.

The €500 million combined cycle gas turbine plant at Amorebieta in the Basque region of Spain was officially opened by the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey T.D. and the Basque First Minister, Lehendakari Juan Jose Ibarretxe.

Speaking at the opening, ESB Chairman Tadhg O’Donoghue said it was a great privilege for him to welcome the distinguished guests to see such a wonderful plant built by Basque labour and engineers, assisted by ESBI staff.

"It was a great success for us in ESB to be able to utilise so much local input and the local economy will now reap the benefits," he said.

"When ESB met with politicians and leaders of the region and local communities and businesses in the initial stage of the project, we received great support and backing from all sections and this was and is very important to us. The project fits with what we in ESB like to do -- be part of the local community and go forward as good neighbours, taxpayers and citizens, leaving a positive imprint."

The Chairman also thanked Minister Noel Dempsey for travelling to Bilbao to open the plant. "Without your support and the support of your Department this project could not have happened," he told the Minister.

Speaking on behalf of Osaka Gas, who were coincidentally celebrating their 100th anniversary also on the day, Mr Seishiro Yoshioko, Executive Vice President, said he wanted to express his deep appreciation to ESB and ESBI for the successful implementation of the project.

"I am deeply moved to celebrate two historic occasions on the same day. You have 80 years of experience and the Osaka Gas group is proud to team up with you as partners. It is a truly significant milestone for us to come to the Basque region with such an experienced partner and we look forward to the prosperity of our joint undertaking in the coming years."