The ESB hopes to appoint a company to begin the remediation of the sites of the two recently closed Shannonside-based power stations by the summer.
Last July the company advertised for a contractor to carry out the demolition of the Lough Ree power station in Lanesboro and the Shannonbridge facility as part of their planning permission for both sites.
Both power stations shut in December, with a report on any possible future use as energy hubs expected early this year. as part of Just Transition plans.
However, the Minister for the environment has confirmed to Roscommon-Galway TD Denis Naughten that the report will now delayed until the spring.
The ESB has confirmed that engineering teams have engaged with the Just Transition Commissioner and county councils to consider alternative uses for the existing plant and equipment.
The company says work is also advancing on the selection of contractors to carry out remediation of the sites, which is required under the terms of existing planning consents and environmental licences before further development of the sites can take place and the appointment of contractors is expected before the summer.
Deputy Naughten says the Minister needs to put pressure on to have the report completed ahead of any contracts being signed or work being carried out.
