Cavan graduate helping power Ireland’s energy future through the EirGrid Graduate Programme

18 September 2026 - For Ballymachugh native Charlie Mulligan, a passion for engineering and problem-solving led him towards a career in the energy sector. Today, as part of EirGrid’s Graduate Programme, he is helping to support the development of Ireland’s electricity grid while building a career at the heart of Ireland’s energy transition.
 
As the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, EirGrid is playing a key role in delivering Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions. Through its recently launched Group Strategy 2026, the organisation plans to invest €18.9 billion in transforming the electricity transmission system by 2030, supporting growing electricity demand, enabling more renewable energy and delivering the largest programme of grid development ever undertaken in Ireland. 

For graduates like Mulligan, this presents a unique opportunity to contribute to projects of national importance while gaining valuable skills and experience in a rapidly evolving sector. 

"My interest in mechanical engineering was influenced by growing up around both engineers and farmers," he explains. 

"I was always interested in understanding how things work and how engineering can help solve real-world challenges."

During his engineering studies at Technological University Dublin, Mulligan developed a particular interest in the energy sector, and the role engineering can play in addressing sustainability challenges. 

"What excites me most about the energy sector is how quickly it is changing and the important role engineering has in supporting that transition."

Towards the end of his degree, he completed a thesis on the design of a pumped hydro energy storage system, similar in concept to Turlough Hill, Ireland’s only pumped hydro energy storage facility. 

"After graduating, EirGrid felt like a natural place to continue developing that interest, while contributing to Ireland’s renewable energy future and the wider transition to a more sustainable power system."  

Earlier this year, EirGrid climbed 47 places to reach number 50 in GradIreland’s 100 Leading Graduate Employers ranking, reflecting its growing reputation as an employer of choice for graduates. 

"EirGrid’s graduate programme has been a great introduction to the energy sector," he says. 

"One of the main reasons I applied was the structure of the programme, with three rotations across different directorates in the company."

One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme came through his involvement with CleanerGrid, EirGrid’s annual third-level student competition, designed to engage students on energy, sustainability and the future of Ireland’s electricity system. 

"While my academic background was mainly technical, this project gave me the opportunity to build experience in project coordination, stakeholder engagement, communications and event planning. 

"It also showed me that engineering roles can involve much more than technical analysis, and that strong communication and collaboration skills are just as important when delivering work that has a wider impact."

As EirGrid continues to expand to deliver on its ambitious strategy, the organisation expects its workforce to grow significantly, creating opportunities for graduates across Ireland. 

"The programme has helped me build confidence, broaden my understanding of the energy industry, and become more excited about contributing to Ireland’s energy transition as my career develops."

Applications for EirGrid’s Graduate Programme are open from 18 September 2026 for graduates interested in building careers across engineering, IT, cyber security, business, finance, economics and more. Further information is available at www.eirgrid.ie/graduates.