David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of electricity generating stations scheduled for closure here; his intentions in regard to future use of these stations; the number and location of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11469/07]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 412: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of electricity generating stations scheduled for closure here; his intentions in regard to future use of these stations; the number and location of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11594/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 412 together.

I refer the Deputy to the CER-ESB Asset Strategy which was subject of a Memorandum of Understanding on 29 November 2006 and comprises a package of measures to reduce ESB's share of the power generation market in the Single Energy Market to around 40% by 2010. Details of the agreement are available on the CER's website.

The package of measures includes the proposed divestment or closure of 1300 MW of existing ESB power plant by 2010, as well as the immediate sale of 208 MW of peaking capacity plant, including sites and infrastructure, at Rhode, Co. Offaly and Tawnaghmore, Co. Mayo.

Under the agreement that the sites of the former Shannonbridge (with a gas connection) and Lanesboro stations are to be offered for sale with immediate effect to Independent Generators for construction and connection of new power plant. ESB will also make available other sites with a capacity of 300 MW by end June 2007 and a further 700 MW by 2010.

A detailed implementation plan for the Asset Strategy is to be agreed by ESB and CER no later than 30 June 2007. This is to include identification of the particular plants or sites to be closed or divested and the timings of these events.