Procurement drives LNG reserve planning as Ireland strengthens energy security

Ireland’s procurement system is moving to support a state-led emergency liquefied natural gas (LNG) reserve.

After the closure of the Southwest Kinsale storage reservoir in 2017, the country remains one of five EU members without domestic gas storage and currently falls short of the EU N-1 Infrastructure Standard.

With 78% of natural gas in 2024 imported from the UK via the Moffat entry point, authorities are prioritising new procurement and regulatory measures to reduce reliance on external sources. The initiative aims to secure supply continuity during periods of exceptional demand or disruption.

Under Action 17 of the Energy Security in Ireland to 2030 report, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien approved the development of a State-led LNG terminal to establish a strategic gas reserve. The Government’s 2025 Summer Legislative Programme includes the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (Amendment) Bill, which will extend Gas Networks Ireland’s (GNI) functions to manage a Floating Storage and Regassification Unit (FSRU).

In July, GNI sought market feedback through a Request for Information on potential procurement options for developing and operating the FSRU. The consultation outlined three ownership models — full private ownership, full GNI ownership, or a joint venture between GNI and a private party.

Officials have stated that the LNG reserve will act as a transitional, emergency-only measure while renewable capacity continues to grow. Procurement outcomes from this process are expected to shape how Ireland balances private participation with State control in its energy strategy.

Discover the full update on Ireland’s LNG procurement and regulatory framework in the complete article.