A Limerick community has accused a biogas developer of being vague about when a public information day would be held for a proposed anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in the area.

Developer CycleØ has submitted plans to build the plant in Cappinahane, Limerick, to produce renewable biomethane and contribute to Ireland’s 2030 Climate Action Plan and net-zero targets.

However, in response, a number of local residents have formed a group to oppose the project.

In a statement, the group said: “CycleØ held a public meeting in December 2024, but announcements about the event were vague.”

“Many in the surrounding community were unaware the meeting had taken place, with some homes reportedly receiving flyers only after the meeting had already occurred,” the statement continued.

Event success

However, in a statement to the Irish Farmers Journal, CycleØ said it held its public community engagement event at the Charleville Court Hotel on 12 December 2024, where it welcomed many local residents.

“In several individual conversations held since, we have answered questions including those posed by members of the concern group,” the statement read.

“Feedback received at the public event was considered and amendments included within our plans, a decision which was shared on 5 March by email to anyone who asked to be updated after attending the December 2024 event," the statement continued.

The group states that, while it supports the use of anaerobic digesters as a renewable energy source, their objection lies with the proposed location of the facility.

“Approximately 90 homes lie within a 2km radius of the site, and concerns have also been raised about the potential environmental impact on a nearby woodland and stream that crosses the area,” the statement reads.

However, CycleØ states that in its planning application, the Environmental Impact Assessment Report shows no negative impact on local wildlife or ecosystems.

“This comprehensive report also details all the mitigating factors to be employed that will manage any impact of traffic movements, noise and odours. The plant will be self-sufficient in electricity and water, with built-in rainwater recovery and self-contained water and run-off protection,” it said.

Frustration

With public submissions due by 27 April, residents have expressed frustration at the limited timeframe for consultation. In response, the concerned group has hosted several information sessions for locals on the proposed plant and how they can have their say.

The group has also established a presence on social media, and volunteers have distributed flyers to homes across the area.

Plans

CycleØ intends to build four biogas plants in Ireland, representing a €100m investment, at sites initially identified in Limerick, Kildare, Galway and Cavan.

The plants will produce a combined total output of 160GWh, enough to heat around 12,000 Irish homes and contributing to the National Biomethane Strategy of producing 5.7TWh of indigenous biomethane by 2030.