Consultation starts on Mayo 110 kV power project

EirGrid, Ireland’s grid operator, is this week beginning consultation on a new electricity project that will reinforce the network in north Connacht.

Consultation on the North Connacht 110 kV project starts in Ballina tomorrow and will continue in Foxford, Swinford, Charlestown, Dromore West, Collooney, Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar over the coming weeks.

The new development replaces the larger Grid West project that was originally proposed in 2012 to connect large amounts of renewable energy to the grid. The decision to replace it is due to the lower than expected amounts of wind generation in the North Connacht region.

This means it can now be connected through the development of a lower-voltage, 110 kV line. The new project will also reinforce the electricity network in the region, supporting its attractiveness as a place in which to live, work and invest.

“The project is at a very early stage of development and we are looking for feedback on four different 110 kV technology options,” said EirGrid spokesperson, David Martin.

“We are not considering a route for the line at this early stage. Once we have decided on the best technology option we will engage with the public again before deciding on the best route,” he added.

The project will be a 110 kV overhead line or underground cable. If an overhead line is used, the majority of the line would be carried on twin pole sets.

The start point for the project will be at the Moy substation near Ballina. The end point will be either Tonroe substation near Ballaghaderreen or Srananagh substation near Sligo Town.

Anyone who wishes to make a submission on this phase of the project can do so until July 23. Details on how to make a submission are available on www.eirgrid.com.

The announcement has been welcomed by Mayo County Council.