The ESB is investigating an oil spill at the Tarbert generating station in north Kerry. Oil from the fuel system got mixed into the steam system and was released with cooling water, resulting in a spill in the Shannon Estuary on Saturday evening. The quantity is estimated at 20 to 30 gallons.
An ESB spokesman said "any spill is one too many and we regret it and are investigating it".
Protective booms have been placed around the spill. It is expected the oil will be broken down by sunlight and bacteria and will then disperse.
There has been no damage yet found to any birds or wildlife, but monitoring will continue to take place.
