Kilkenny grid upgrades listed as key priority in ambitious new strategy

EirGrid has launched its Group Strategy 2026, setting out an ambitious roadmap to transform Ireland’s electricity grid for a future where every home business and community is powered by secure, clean and affordable electricity.

EirGrid is responsible for operating the electricity transmission system securely and reliably, while planning and delivering the grip of tomorrow.

The strategy outlines how EirGrid plans to transform society through electrification by delivering the most extensive programme of work ever undertaken on Ireland’s electricity system.

Following regulatory approval of an €18.9 billion programme of investment to strengthen the electricity grid over the strategy period to 2030, a clear focus has been placed on building grid infrastructure at pace and at scale.

As part of the strategy, EirGrid has identified 29 priority projects to meet growing electricity demand, including the Laois/Kilkenny Grid Reinforcement.

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The company said the grid in Kilkenny and Laois needs to be upgraded to reduce risks to the quality and security of the power supply in the area and that 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 including homes, farms and small businesses.

As well as maintaining a reliable electricity supply in the region, the Laois/Kilkenny Grid Reinforcement will help to make the grid renewable ready as Ireland transitions to a cleaner, greener electricity future.

Speaking about the strategy Cathal Marley, Chief Executive of EirGrid said: “We are launching this strategy at a defining moment for Ireland and for Kilkenny. While electricity demand is increasing at pace due to population and economic growth and the electrification of society, there is huge growth in renewable generation.”

“A modern fit-for-purpose grid opens the country up to more possibilities. And the Laois/Kilkenny Grid Reinforcement will support the development of the grid of the future, one that supports regional development, housing and economic growth.”

“Our ambition is clear, to build and operate a grid that can power Ireland’s future. By delivering infrastructure at pace and at scale, we are not only supporting the energy transition, we are also supporting long-term social and economic progress in communities across Kilkenny,” he added.

The strategy is built around four key pillars; keeping Ireland powered, building a grid for growth, transforming for clean energy and unlocking new frontiers.

To deliver the strategy, EirGrid will significantly expand its workforce to deliver major infrastructure programmes across the country.

Over the past five years, EirGrid has grown from a workforce of 500 to 1,500 and over the period of the strategy, that will reach over 2,000 to facilitate and drive growth.

Along with building capacity, strong emphasis has been put on collaboration in the development of the strategy, including meaningful collaboration with local communities.