16 October, 2026
Ready4H2 took part this week in a hydrogen policy and infrastructure discussion organised by Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) and Hydrogen Ireland in Dublin, as part of a series of energy-focused events taking place during Ireland's EU Council Presidency. The Irish Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien, opened the event by highlighting the important role hydrogen will play in delivering energy security, decarbonisation and economic growth across Ireland and Europe.
The discussion was moderated by Professor John Fitzgerald and panellists comprised Barbara Jinks, Ready4H2 Director, Garrett Monaghan, Pinsent Masons Head of Projects, and Brian Mullins, GNI Hydrogen Programme Director. The panel agreed that hydrogen has an important role to play in Ireland's energy future, particularly in the production of e-fuels for the aviation and maritime sectors and meeting growing power demand driven by data centres. The critical role of gas networks was emphasised in supporting integrated energy system resilience, enabling increased renewable energy integration and storage, balancing the electricity grid and helping to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors.
Ireland's strong onshore and offshore wind resources, together with significant volumes of curtailed renewable electricity, create opportunities for green hydrogen production to exceed domestic demand, and be exported to the European mainland. However, panellists noted that commercial success will depend on the development of demand-led hydrogen hubs, long-duration energy storage, supportive regulation and bankable business models. GNI confirmed its commitment to planning a resilient and future-ready gas transmission and distribution network and, like other European network operators, recognised that success will require coordinated action across policy, infrastructure, industry and investment.
The discussion concluded that Ireland has significant hydrogen potential and exciting opportunities for network operators and that there should be no delay in seizing the opportunities As a member of Ready4H2, GNI benefits from shared expertise, practical experience and support from the European Ready4H2 community as it continues to develop its hydrogen pathway.
