EirGrid Plans 450km New Lines, Including Delayed 138km North-South Interconnector by 2031
EirGrid plans 450km of new electricity lines, including the 138km North-South interconnector, aiming for 2031 completion. This critical project, delayed for 20 years, will save consumers €100 million annually and integrate renewables. The €6 billion investment addresses grid bottlenecks and prepares for doubled demand by 2050.
EirGrid announced plans to add 450km of new electricity lines to the national grid, including the 138km North-South interconnector. This interconnector, connecting counties Meath and Tyrone, has been part of EirGrid’s plans since 2006 and is expected to be completed by 2031.
The 20-year-old North-South interconnector project faced delays due to planning errors, legal challenges, and local opposition, despite reviews ruling out undergrounding the line. EirGrid confirmed it now has full planning and legal consent. The State company’s strategy involves spending €6 billion to boost capacity on 1,000km of existing lines and add new ones.
Government deems the interconnector critical infrastructure, and EirGrid considers it a strategic priority. Its absence is partly blamed for grid problems that force Northern Ireland wind farms to shut down, denying access to cheap renewable electricity. Wind Energy Ireland states that 20-30% of available wind power in Northern Ireland can be curtailed due to bottlenecks. EirGrid estimates the interconnector will save Irish electricity consumers around €100 million annually.
EirGrid’s strategy also addresses preparing the Republic’s electricity system for unprecedented change, with demand projected to more than double by 2050. This includes integrating large volumes of new renewable generation like offshore and onshore wind, solar, and battery storage. Regulators and Government approved nearly €19 billion last year for State electricity networks, aiming to support investment, regional development, and housing.