ESB US funding raising efforts create over $1bn

The ESB today announced that it has raised funds of $1.034 bn (€0.83 bn) in the US. The private placement, finalised last night, will fund major improvements in Ireland's power infrastructure.

Announcing the deal ESB Chief Executive, Padraig McManus said: "The very positive response is a sign of the high regard in which the company is held internationally, and is also a vote of confidence in the Irish economy".