Ireland’s grid operator Eirgrid seeks input on long-duration energy storage procurement

Ireland’s transmission system operator Eirgrid has opened a consultation on procuring long-duration energy storage (LDES) resources, targeting 500MW of capacity with a minimum 4-hour discharge duration. The move aims to support grid stability as wind generation grows and curtailment risks rise.

The proposed mechanism would allow storage providers to export electricity during peak evening demand and import during periods of high renewable generation to reduce constraint-related redispatch. Eirgrid’s plan includes a revenue-sharing model, with 70% of revenues above a floor going to the asset owner and 30% retained by the TSO, requiring open-book accounting of all revenue streams.

While four-hour systems are standard internationally in solar-heavy markets, Eirgrid is tailoring the approach for Ireland’s predominantly wind-powered system. The consultation follows recommendations from the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment’s Electricity Storage Policy Framework, which identified immediate procurement of LDES as critical to meeting renewable targets.

Eirgrid will host an industry webinar on 5 November 2025 to discuss operational and procurement details. The consultation draws on examples from the UK’s LDES scheme, Australia, and BESS capacity mechanisms in Greece and Italy, while seeking input to optimise local market conditions.

The initiative highlights Ireland’s push for greater integration of storage into the grid, enhancing flexibility and enabling more efficient use of renewable energy resources.

Engage with Eirgrid’s consultation and explore the full article on their long-duration energy storage framework in Ireland.