Cathal Marley
Chief Executive of EirGrid
Cathal Marley, Chief Executive of EirGrid, outlines how strategic investment in grid infrastructure will power secure, clean and affordable electricity and strengthen Ireland’s energy security.
Meeting Ireland’s climate and energy ambitions cannot depend on renewable energy generation alone; it will require a modern, resilient electricity grid capable of connecting new sources of power and delivering them to homes, businesses and communities across the country.
As Ireland’s Transmission System Operator, EirGrid is responsible for operating the electricity transmission system securely and reliably, while planning for the country’s long-term energy needs.
Offshore wind and interconnection will play a transformative role in Ireland’s energy future,
open the door to large-scale renewable generation and greater long-term energy independence
Developing infrastructure for a future-ready grid
“To meet the needs of a growing economy and an increasingly electrified society, we need a grid that is stronger, smarter and ready for the future,” says Marley. The infrastructure we deliver today will underpin Ireland’s competitiveness, energy security and climate ambitions for decades to come.”
To meet these challenges, EirGrid is delivering the most ambitious programme of transmission infrastructure development in Ireland’s history, with 381 transmission projects planned nationwide over the next five years, supported by an €18.9 billion investment programme to strengthen Ireland’s electricity grid.
“Our strategy is about building the backbone of Ireland’s electricity grid. It sets out how we will deliver grid infrastructure at pace and at scale, while continuing to operate a safe, secure and reliable electricity system every day,” he says.
A key component of the programme is the delivery of 29 major transmission priority projects identified as offering the greatest benefit to the State. These include three electricity projects identified for support in the first round under Government’s Critical Infrastructure Bill, the North-South Interconnector, Moneypoint Series Capacitor and Letterkenny Station Redevelopment.
Working towards a cleaner energy system
The future energy system will also rely heavily on offshore wind and opportunities for greater interconnections across Europe. The Celtic Interconnector, currently under construction between Ireland and France, will allow electricity to flow between both countries and, once operational, will have the capacity to power up to 450,000 homes.
“Offshore wind and interconnection will play a transformative role in Ireland’s energy future, open the door to large-scale renewable generation and greater long-term energy independence,” Marley explains.
Delivering the grid of tomorrow will require meaningful engagement with local communities, and this remains central to EirGrid’s approach as it develops major infrastructure across the country.
“EirGrid will not deliver the energy transition alone; we must continue to collaborate with communities and stakeholders and communicate the critical role infrastructure plays in supporting our economy, society and our climate ambitions,” he concludes.
