Former Munster captain weighs $400 million fuel plant bid for Foynes

Essential Energy Holding, a company led by former Munster rugby player Federico Pucciariello, is evaluating a bid to build a sustainable aviation fuel plant in the Republic of Ireland. The proposed facility would be located at the deep water port in Foynes, County Limerick. Pucciariello confirmed the company is considering the move over the weekend.

The project would require an estimated $350 million to $400 million in capital, equivalent to between €312 million and €360 million. Pucciariello stated the plant would create roughly 200 permanent jobs. During the construction phase, the project would employ approximately 1,000 workers.

Pucciariello, who is chief executive of the Argentine-based group, cited rising demand from European airlines for non-fossil fuels as the primary driver. The company is known as Essential Energy Holding, or EEH. It was originally established as Rosario Bioenergy in 2007. Pucciariello invested in the business while still an active rugby player.

The group currently processes food waste in Argentina and ships the product to Italy. It recently acquired DB Lubrificanti in Civitavecchia. Its customers include the Italian oil producer Eni and Shell. The company also operates in South America, Europe, and the Middle East.

EEH is currently developing a separate plant in Santa Fe province, Argentina, in partnership with YPF. This facility is designed to produce over 170,000 tonnes of fuel annually. It will require a $400 million investment. Production is scheduled to begin in September 2027. Last month, the venture signed a supply deal with TotalEnergies for renewable fuels, including aviation fuel.

John O’Connor, EEH’s Irish-based international vice-president, said Foynes was chosen because of its port infrastructure. Irish Rail and the port company are building a new rail line from Foynes to Limerick. This line connects to the area near Shannon Airport, where Aer Lingus and Ryanair operate. O’Connor noted that Irish airlines have committed to using sustainable aviation fuel.

Pucciariello played 85 games for Munster over four seasons. He earned eight caps for Italy. He was part of the Munster team that won the Heineken Cup in Cardiff in 2006. O’Connor said Pucciariello has a strong personal connection to the Limerick region due to his time with the provincial team. The company has plant designs ready and states it can fund the project internally.