EirGrid welcomes National Development Plan and says investment in grid infrastructure is vital for Ireland’s economy and society

EirGrid has welcomed the announcement by the Government indicating investment in Ireland's transmission system as part of the National Development Plan (NDP). 

 It said it’s committed to supporting and facilitating the timely delivery of an unprecedented amount of new infrastructure and said the investment will support the increased capital investment outlined in its PR6 investment plan, which is currently under consultation with CRU.

EirGrid is responsible for balancing electricity supply and demand every minute of the day from the National Control Centre, while also strategically planning for Ireland’s long-term electricity needs. 

EirGrid is progressing an ambitious programme of work which includes the delivery of new onshore infrastructure, as well as upgrades and reinforcements to the grid to ensure it is resilient and renewable ready. 

EirGrid will also have a new role owning and being responsible for offshore transmission assets. 

Speaking about the publication of the National Development Plan (NDP), Cathal Marley, Chief Executive of EirGrid, said:  "EirGrid is currently progressing the most ambitious programme of work ever undertaken on the transmission system in Ireland, and this will see upgrades and new infrastructure right across the country. 

"Continued investment in our grid and delivery of that infrastructure is fundamental to unlocking greater energy independence and security, enabling social and economic growth both nationally and regionally, meeting future needs and reaching renewable energy targets.   

 "We welcome the announcement by the Government indicating investment in Ireland's transmission system as part of the National Development Plan. 

"In the days and weeks ahead, we look forward to continued engagement with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE) and the Government more widely on next steps to powering up Ireland. 

"This investment will support the increased capital investment outlined in our PR6 investment plan which is currently under consultation with CRU.”