ESB Networks and EirGrid mark major milestone with first-ever deployment of innovative tower-raising technology in Ireland

ESB Networks has embarked on a major refurbishment project to upgrade the Flagford to Louth 220kV electricity transmission line, a 100km corridor linking the west and east of Ireland.

The delivery of this upgrade, which has been brought forward by the Transmission System Operator, EirGrid, will ensure a more resilient, reliable and renewable-powered electricity system into the future and will bring benefits to communities across the Midlands, North-East, West and North-West.

In a first for Ireland, eleven towers across the line were each raised by approximately 2.5 metres using new technology by Ampjack, a Canadian-based engineering company. Collaborating closely with ESB Engineering and Major Projects, and contractor Circet, Ampjack’s innovative solution enabled the line to remain live while works were progressing, reducing the impact on customers.

Claire Conaty, Transmission Manager at ESB Networks commented on the announcement, “Building the energy infrastructure Ireland needs for the future means continually evolving our approach to delivery.

“Through collaboration and the use of innovative solutions, we are accelerating the delivery of this critical transmission project, helping to provide the energy that Ireland needs to support housing economic growth and climate action.”

Jason Kenna, Head of Network Projects Ireland at EirGrid also spoke, saying, “A reliable, resilient electricity grid is key to supporting communities and regional economies throughout the country.

“That’s why at EirGrid, we’re making a significant investment, we're making a significant investment in strengthening the grid across Ireland, allowing us to continue to support a thriving society.

“This upgrade project is critical in ensuring the energy system can continue to support the needs of businesses and homes in the east and west, as well as bringing us closer to meeting energy targets.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our stakeholders as we make progress in building an electricity grid for the future.”

President at Ampjack Industries Ltd, Luke Chaput, said, “We were delighted to support ESB’s teams and their partner contractor, Circet, in using our innovative technology to carry out these important works.

“It was a first for Ampjack in Ireland, and we look forward to seeing how we can support the needs of the Irish electricity network as it continues to evolve over the coming years.”

The Flagford to Louth refurbishment project is one of 29 priority transmission projects brought forward by EirGrid and being delivered by ESB Networks under its Price Review 6 (PR6) investment programme.

PR6 represents the largest investment in Ireland’s electricity network to date and will deliver more than 500 major capital projects to meet growing electricity demand across housing, transport and industry, and will support Ireland's transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy future.