Energy giant SSE to create 700 jobs
A total of 700 jobs have been announced by the energy giant SSE, it was confirmed today.
One hundred of the jobs will be permanent, with the other 600 based in construction for the next two years.
The British energy giant, which already owns Airtricity in Ireland, is taking over the Irish business of Endesa Generacion in a €488m investment.
The company is set to invest €43m of working capital and a further €125m building a 460MW combined cycle gas turbine power station at Great Island, Co Wexford.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny said the investment was a great vote of confidence in Ireland and its economy.
“Secure energy supply is crucial for future investment and jobs and also presents other significant economic opportunities for Ireland, particularly in the export of renewable power,” he added.
SSE, a British firm, has employed more then 900 full time workers since it entered the Irish market in 2008.
Its utility businesses include energy supplier Airtricity, street lighting firm Airtricity Utility Solutions, renewable energy developer SSE Renewables and SSE Generation, which operates renewable energy generation in Ireland.
Gregor Alexander, SSE lead director for Ireland, said this was a significant milestone for the firm’s business in Ireland.
“Today’s announcement is part of SSE’s long-term commitment to Ireland, serving customers, employing people, and providing a sustainable, secure and competitive supply of energy to power our rapidly growing energy supply business, Airtricity,” he added.
“The completion of this acquisition and that of Phoenix Supply announced in May will make SSE the third largest energy company across the island with 750,000 customers.”
