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Episode 4 - Navigating Ireland’s Energy Transition

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, Jonny Prest speaks with Caitríona Sheridan, Senior Engineer at Bord na Móna and an alumna of Imperial College London’s Energy Futures Lab MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures. Caitríona shares her journey in the energy sector, discussing Ireland’s ambitious renewable energy goals and her work on cutting-edge projects that are driving the country’s transition to clean energy.

Caitríona delves into Bord na Móna's innovative initiatives, including the integration of flexible technologies and the co-location of large energy users with renewable power generation. If you're interested in Ireland’s renewable energy landscape or curious about how industries are innovating for a sustainable future, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode Overview

with timestamps

Guest Introduction: Caitríona Sheridan [00:00:30] : Caitríona discusses her role as a Senior Engineer at Bord na Móna and shares insights into Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
Caitríona’s Career Path [00:01:03] : Caitríona reflects on her academic background, her passion for sustainability, and how it has shaped her career in energy.
The Importance of Power Systems [00:04:03] : Caitríona explains the crucial role of power systems in the energy transition and their impact on decarbonisation.
Ireland's Renewable Energy Goals [00:07:17] : Ireland aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Caitríona explores the challenges and opportunities along the way.
Bord na Móna's Transition [00:12:26] : From peat harvesting to becoming a climate solutions business, Bord na Móna’s transformation is central to Ireland’s clean energy strategy.
Offshore Wind as a Key Opportunity [00:09:08] : Ireland’s potential in offshore wind energy is vast, with opportunities for up to 37GW of power. Caitríona discusses how this can revolutionise the country’s energy landscape.
Eco Energy Parks & Co-location [00:17:17] : Learn about Bord na Móna’s innovative eco energy parks, which co-locate renewable energy infrastructure with large energy users to maximise efficiency.
Energy Storage Innovations [00:19:35] : Caitríona discusses exciting advances in energy storage, such as lithium-ion projects, and looks at the future of long-duration storage.
Industry-Academia Collaboration [00:22:00] : The importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers in advancing renewable energy solutions.
Advice for Students [00:23:48] : Caitríona offers valuable advice for students looking to build connections in the energy industry and align research with real-world challenges.
Ireland as Europe’s Energy Lab [00:25:18] : Ireland is positioned as Europe’s “Energy Lab” due to its leadership in wind energy and renewable energy integration.
Engaging Communities [00:29:11] : Bord na Móna’s community engagement strategies, including scholarships and benefit schemes, that involve local communities in renewable energy projects.
Decarbonisation & a Just Transition [00:32:10] : Caitríona highlights the urgency of decarbonising the energy sector while ensuring a just transition for all stakeholders.
Closing Remarks & Future Vision [00:33:53] : Caitríona shares her vision for the future of energy, focusing on rapid decarbonisation, electrification, and smarter energy use.

Meet Our Guests

Caitríona Sheridan

Caitríona Sheridan is a Senior Engineer at Bord na Móna and an alumna of Imperial College London’s MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures. She is at the forefront of renewable energy projects in Ireland, driving innovation and sustainability in the country’s energy transition.

Connect with Caitríona on LinkedIn

Related Resources

To deepen your understanding of the topics discussed in this episode, explore the following resources:

Bord na Móna: Learn more about Ireland’s leading renewable energy supplier.
Energy Futures Podcast YouTube Channel: Watch more episodes.

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