sunrise over Arigna Valley
Our History

About Arigna Group

Arigna Group is a family owned business based in Ireland that has been present since the 1870s through generations of the Layden family, with a history steeped in innovation. Some quick facts:

  • 1900s We started out as an underground mining company, mining coal for power production in Arigna

  • 1980s Transitioned to manufacturing low smoke coal, the first in Ireland to do so

  • Mid 1990s The Spion Kop Windfarm was commissioned in 1998 and powers Arigna’s Plant

  • 2010-present 70,000 tonne Biochar Plant with renewable focus

Our Purpose

We strive for sustainability across the globe

After significant research we decided that processing biomass through pyrolysis or torrefaction to create biochar would provide what we required to transition from a fossil fuel company to a renewable company. We can now produce biochar at scale with a variety of carbon content.

70,000

Tonne capacity per annum

82%

Carbon content

Our Team

Our team is extremely qualified to assist you with your biochar requirements

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have a project in mind, want to partner with us or simply wish to find out more. We are happy to help.

conor layden

Conor Layden

Commercial Director

robert johnson

Dr. Robert Johnson

R&D Manager

Shane Layden

Project Manager

Siobhán Hetherington

Marketing Manager

arigna mining experience
Arigna Mining Experience

Visit the Arigna Mining Experience

At the Arigna Mining Experience, history is brought to life to tell the story of Ireland’s coal mining industry and explore the themes of energy – past, present and future. At Arigna, you don’t just go on a journey back in time, you also go underground!

  • Click below to find out more about tours, pricing, opening hours, gift shop and café.