Laois Kilkenny Grid Reinforcement

The grid in Kilkenny and Laois needs to be upgraded to reduce risks to the quality and security of the power supply in the immediate area, as well as in the adjacent counties of Carlow and Kildare. 

The upgrade will help meet the increased demand for electricity in the area. Projected growth in electricity demand in the area will cause problems in the future if not addressed.

This project proposes to develop a new electricity line between the two counties. The plan follows the grid planning criteria for these areas, and includes minimal new infrastructure.

We have planned for the installation of interim measures in the Kilkenny substation. This will ensure electricity supply to the area, but is only a short-term measure. It does not address the underlying risks to the security and quality of the electricity supply.

For the Laois Kilkenny Reinforcement Project, the proposed infrastructure includes:

The project will address the regional concerns on the grid. In particular, it ensures that the power system can meet the grid’s technical standards. 

All parts of Ireland need a reliable, high quality standard of electricity supply. This ensures that our electricity grid can meet the present and future needs of all users; from homes and farms, to small businesses and industry. 

A strong electricity grid provides this reassurance, as Ireland transitions to a low carbon electricity future. It will also provide the capacity and security of supply demanded by industry and high-tech users. 

This will allow the region to compete for and retain businesses with employment potential. 

Below shows the status for different elements of the project.

April 2024

Coolnabacky

Work is under way at the Coolnabacky Substation site.

Surveys have been conducted in line with the construction plans, and site clearance and enabling works have begun. 

Works will continue over the rest of the year, progressing to construction and installation of the 110 kV electrical primary plant.

Ballyragget-Coolnabacky 110 kV line

The Kilkenny side of the 110 kV line is nearing completion, whilst a significant portion of polesets and angle towers have been constructed on the Laois side. 

Works will continue over the rest of the year, with the remaining structures, stringing and fire wrapping of the line to be undertaken. 

The Laois Kilkenny community forum brings together people and organisations from the area. It means we can discuss, understand, and properly consider stakeholder and community views.

Irish Rural Link is the independent chair of this community forum.

The role of the forum is to advise on:

Membership

The Community Forum comprises local representatives from community groups and associations and elected representatives in Laois and Kilkenny.

In April 2021 we held an information evening about the setup of the forum. We then opened a public nomination period where community groups were invited to express an interest in sitting on the forum. 

New membership to the forum is now closed.

We aim to create as little disturbance as possible, but at times work on the electricity system can involve some disruption to communities. 

For this reason, a dedicated fund for new grid development is made available to provide direct benefits to communities who are closest to new transmission infrastructure.

EirGrid is now inviting applications to Phase 2 of a €511,500 fund for communities adjacent to the Laois Kilkenny Reinforcement Project. 

This fund has been established in recognition of the importance of working closely with communities across the two counties throughout the construction of the project elements between Coolnabacky in Co Laois and Ballyragget in Co Kilkenny.

It is expected that 30% of the fund (€153,450) will be distributed in 2024/2025, with the remainder of the fund released in Phase 3 of distribution in line with project progress.

The fund will provide grants to local community groups, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises that operate or service communities near this new electricity line, and who can deliver projects that will create positive social and environmental impacts. 

The overall aim is to increase public and environmental wellbeing in the community and to leave a positive legacy. 

Phase 2 of the fund opened for applications at 12pm on Tuesday 23 April 2024. 

Applications will close at 5pm on Tuesday 18 June 2024.

Any initiative or project that can demonstrate a benefit to these communities is eligible for funding, with priority given to those areas within 3km of the development. Funding will be given out under two strands:

We awarded €204,600 to community groups and not-for-profit organisations in Laois and Kilkenny in Phase 1, the first of three phases of funding available in the areas adjacent to the project.

You can find all documents relating to the Laois Kilkenny Reinforcement Project in our Publications section. Search for 'Laois Kilkenny' to find all the information you need on phase one and phase two reports, as well as all other relevant documents.

Community Forum Minutes of Meetings