The Moneypoint site in Co. Clare is to be turned into a "green energy hub", the ESB has announced today (Friday, April 9).

A range of renewable energy technologies are set to be rolled-out on the Moneypoint site over the next decade, with a planned capacity to power 1.6 million homes.

The plan - named 'Green Atlantic @ Moneypoint' - is a multi-billion euro programme and will result in "hundreds of jobs" according to the ESB.

The programme will see the development of the following:

"We have long signaled our intention to cease burning coal at Moneypoint. Today we are unveiling plans for a reimagined Moneypoint, which will not only create hundreds of jobs, but will also help Ireland to meet its climate targets and maintain secure supplies of electricity," ESB chief executive Pat O'Doherty said.

Meanwhile, Jim Dollard, the ESB's executive director for generation and trading, said: "Moneypoint has played a role a critical role in the country’s energy supply for almost 40 years."

"We are proud that it will continue to have a crucial role in Ireland’s energy future with many benefits for the local community and wider society," Dollard added.