An Introduction to EirGrid

We make sure you have a secure and reliable supply of electricity

EirGrid is responsible for a safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity – now and in the future. We develop, manage and operate the electricity transmission grid. This brings power from where it is generated to where it is needed throughout Ireland. We use our grid to supply power to industry and businesses that use large amounts of electricity. Our grid also powers the distribution network. This supplies the electricity you use every day in your homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and farms.

We respond to the demand for electricity: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

EirGrid manages and anticipates the need for power throughout Ireland.

We don’t have a view on how electricity is generated, but we do respond to Government energy policy.

This means we plan for increasing use of renewable energy sources – like wind – to generate electricity.

Electricity generated by many renewable sources can’t be “turned on” when we need it. Instead, EirGrid makes the grid more flexible so it can adapt. Last winter, for the first time, over 10% of Ireland’s electricity was generated from mainly renewable sources.

An Introduction to EirGrid

We plan ahead so there will be electricity in your future, and for future generations.

We look into Ireland’s future, and consider the scenarios that may affect electricity: Where will electricity be generated? Where will it be needed most? Are there new ideas on how it can be stored or transmitted?

We consider the answers to these and many other questions.

We do this to make sure you can rely on a supply of electricity today, tomorrow, and years from now.

We want you to have your say when we develop or add to the grid.

Sometimes, we find an issue that needs new transmission infrastructure – like a new line, cable, or substation.

We only develop new parts of the grid when we absolutely have to. Where possible, we’ll first make the most of what we have.

When we do need a new part of the grid, we want to hear from you. This allows us to learn from your local knowledge, and to understand and respond to your concerns.

Planning a grid development project can take many years.

An Introduction to EirGrid

During this time, we use a six-step process to consider every possibility and find the best solution.

At each step, we make decisions so we can progress and develop our ideas.

Because of this, you have more opportunity to influence our plans the earlier you talk to us. We need to hear from you to help us develop the grid.

We support communities when we build new lines or cables.

We sometimes need to expand our grid, and this can affect communities and homeowners near new transmission lines.

In response, we have created two initiatives: the Community Fund and Proximity Payments.

Community Fund This recognises the importance of local communities when we develop the grid.

Under this initiative, we create a fund to support local community groups and charities.

We calculate the size of the fund based on the length and capacity of the project.

The largest Proximity Payment is €30,000 for a home that is 50 m from a new 400 kV line.

• 110 kV: €15,000 per km • 220 kV: €30,000 per km • 400 kV: €40,000 per km

The smallest Proximity Payment is €2,000 for a home that is 200 m from a new 110 kV pylon.

Proximity Payments These respond to the concerns of rural homeowners within 200m or less of new pylons or stations.

Homes that are closer to higher-powered lines will be eligible for larger payments.

Homes that are farther away, or near lower-power lines, will be offered lower payments.

Want to know more?

If you have any questions about what we do, talk one of our liaison team – they’re here to answer your questions.

You can also find their phone numbers and email addresses on our website: www.eirgrid.com We want to hear from you, and we’re ready to listen.

The Oval, 160 Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin D04 FW28 Telephone: 01 677 1700 • www.eirgrid.com