New exhibition launches in Limerick to celebrate centenary of Ardnacrusha

THIS August marks a full century since the Irish Free State undertook the project of building the hydroelectric generating station in Ardnacrusha.

For a time, it was the largest of its kind in the world.

The ambitious project brought electricity to rural Ireland, accelerated industrial growth, and transformed the nation’s economic and social landscape.

The project’s “spirit of ambition and innovation” will be celebrated in A Bolt out of the Blue, an exhibition commissioned by the National Built Heritage Service in partnership with ESB, with photographs provided by the Photographic Unit of the National Monuments Service.

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Claire Quane, head of Renewable Operations at ESB said: “Ardnacrusha stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets engineering excellence. The Shannon Scheme transformed Ireland in ways that were almost unimaginable in 1925. As we look towards a net zero energy system, we draw inspiration from that same pioneering spirit. The challenges of today demand nothing less.”

The exhibition invites visitors to step into a defining chapter of Irelands past, while reflecting on how its legacy continues to power our future.  

Minister of State for Heritage, Nature and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD followed: “I’m delighted with this collaboration between the National Built Heritage Service, National Monuments Service and the ESB on this project to mark Ardnacrusha’s centenary. As the Government continues its work to achieve a low carbon economy,  it’s fitting to celebrate Ardnacrusha’s transformative role 100 years ago in powering Irish homes through hydroelectricity.

“Ardnacrusha and the Shannon Scheme were groundbreaking for Ireland in terms of scale, engineering feat and for the modernisation of the country at the time brought about by electrification. This photo exhibition commissioned by the National Built Heritage Service and using photos from the National Monuments Service will help to ensure that its legacy is remembered for generations to come.”