A feasibility study is to be carried out into developing an energy facility in south Longford - to see whether it would be viable.
There are mixed views on the proposal among residents in Ballymahon.
Shareholders at Ballymahon Mart recently voted in favour of leasing a site to Nephin Renewable Gas for a biomethane plant.
This is an energy facility - which breaks down organic materials, such as manure and food waste, to produce renewable biogas.
Over 100 people attended a public meeting in Ballymahon last Thursday night - with mixed views on the plant.
After the mart's recent decision, Nephin confirms it's preparing to begin a comprehensive feasibility study in relation to the possible development of a biomethane plant at the site.
It says this detailed evaluation will examine a range of technical, environmental, logistical, and commercial considerations to determine whether the project is viable.
The company says this is expected to take several months.
When it's complete, Nephin says it will carefully review the findings before deciding whether to lodge a planning application.
It says, as with all potential developments, this review forms part of Nephin's standard due-diligence procedures.
Nephin concludes many sites considered at this preliminary stage don't advance further.
