Possibly the largest load ever hauled on Ireland's roads arrives in Laois
The transformers
What’s thought to be the largest ever load transported by road in Ireland arrived at its destination in Laois in recent weeks.
The ESB has welcomed the arrival of two record-breaking transformers at the Coolnabacky Substation near Stradbally.
The two massive transforms were transported from a port in Limerick.
“Transported from Foynes Port in Limerick in 555-tonne convoys over two weekends, the transformers are among the largest loads ever transported by road in Ireland, and the largest to be installed by ESB Networks to date,” the ESB said.
They stated that when operational, the new substation will support the connection of new homes and businesses across the region.
The transformers are a critical part of any substation, changing voltage levels so that electricity can be transported efficiently across the network before being safely used by homes and businesses.
The complex operation required months of planning and coordination between ESB Networks, Powercomm, Aylward Heavy Haulage, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and local authorities across Limerick, Tipperary, Offaly, and Laois.
Lead Project Manager, Mark Giblin, ESB, said: “The delivery of the transformers to Coolnabacky illustrates the scale, complexity and long-term planning involved in delivering major transmission projects. It also highlights the importance of cross-industry collaboration in accelerating critical infrastructure timelines and providing the electrical capacity necessary for strong regional development.”
Managing Director of Powercomm Group, James Cafferty, contracting partner to ESB Networks on the Coolnabacky project said: “The safe delivery of the transformers marks a significant milestone and reflects the careful planning, collaboration and strong safety culture required to deliver projects of this scale. This project will support future energy demand, enhance the resilience of the network, and deliver lasting benefits for the local community and beyond.”
The Laois-Kilkenny Grid Reinforcement 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. Together, these projects represent over half of planned transmission investment and the ESB say they will play a key role in supporting national policy objectives, including housing delivery, economic growth and climate action.