Eirgrid to double electricity capacity in €4bn overhaul

EIRGRID, the operator of Ireland’s national electricity grid, has announced plans to overhaul the network over the next 17 years as part of a €4 billion investment.

The new grid development strategy — launched yesterday under the banner of Grid 25 — aims to basically double electricity transmission capacity here by 2025 and ensure every region of the country will have access to high-quality power supplies.

Work will include a mix of upgrading the transmission network and building around 1,300km of new transmission infrastructure.

Although the commencement of the construction of infrastructural projects is still a number of years away, Eirgrid said it has already begun the process of identifying projects. Although it maintains there is no fear over the security of power supply over the medium-term, the necessity of this policy is largely based on an estimated growth in electricity demand of about 60% over the next 17 years.

“Our role is to ensure that electricity infrastructure doesn’t become a barrier to the social and economic development of any region or county. Grid 25 is our strategic response to this challenge,” said chief executive Dermot Byrne.

The investment is likely to result in small increases in the average household electricity bill, but the Government said it would lead to longer-term savings as the improved grid network would have access to cheaper electricity.

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan said ensuring a strong electricity network covering every region of the country was as important, if not more so, than broadband infrastructure or even the road network.

Eirgrid chairwoman Bernie Gray added: “This strategy is vital for secure, competitive and sustainable supplies for all consumers into the future.”

Employers’ lobby group IBEC was quick to welcome the announcement, saying “reliable and cost-effective electricity transmission infrastructure underpins inward investment, regional economic development and allows us to harness indigenous sources of renewable energy, such as wind and wave”.