Innovative techniques used in line alteration in Kildare-Meath circuit

Significant alterations were recently made to the existing Maynooth-Ryebrook and Dunfirth-Kinnegad-Rinawade 110 kV double circuit lines in Kildare and Meath.

EirGrid, along with ESB Networks, worked to deliver this complex circuit diversion, which will facilitate the customer’s plans for future expansion of their manufacturing campus. 

To accelerate delivery and reduce impact on the grid, the majority of the construction works were undertaken offline during the spring and early summer of this year. This included innovative methods for installing a new conductor over the Rye Water Valley Special Area of Conservation using specialist drones. 

This work also included the erection of new structures, the replacement of fibre connectivity, and the retirement of the old conductor. 

These alterations were completed without any interruption to the electricity supply in the local area and will contribute to the regional economy by supporting increased investment in the area.