WATCH: Big electricity upgrade in Portlaoise to benefit Laois communities, says ESB

A critical electricity infrastructure project in the ESB's Portlaoise hub has doubled capacity and will enable new connections to the electricity network and significantly reinforcing the reliability of the network in the Midlands, according to the State energy supplier.

Watch the short video to hear from John McGloin, Project Manager, Damien McCurry, Network Capacity Deployment Manager, Shane Hill, Project Engineer & Delivery Assurance Manager North, Jack Kelly, Project Supervisor, and Emma Silke, Network Capacity Deployment Manager, as they share how this upgrade enhances capacity, improves reliability and supports the connection of new customers and renewable energy in the Midlands.

The ESB says the work, which involved the uprating of two 31.5 MVA transformers to 63 MVA, was completed in 24 weeks, ensures that the electricity network is better equipped to meet growing electricity demand and support the integration of renewable energy sources as Ireland accelerates its transition to a low-carbon future.

Alan Rossiter is the Strategy and Network Development Manager at ESB Networks. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

“This upgrade forms part of ESB Networks’ broader strategy to future-proof Ireland’s electricity infrastructure. By enhancing the capacity of key substations like Portlaoise, we are ensuring that the electricity network can continue to deliver safe, secure, and sustainable electricity to homes, farms, businesses, and communities across the country,” he said.

The company elaborated on what benefits it might bring for Laois to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"This upgrade will bring a number of practical, day‑to‑day benefits for communities across Laois. Most notably, it increases the amount of electricity available locally. This will enable new customer homes, businesses, and farms to connect to the electricity network, as well as significantly reinforce the reliability of the network in the Midlands region.

"In addition, the increased capacity supports local economic development. A stronger electricity network makes it easier for new enterprises to locate in the area and for existing businesses to expand, helping to support investment and employment locally.

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"The upgrade also helps Laois plan for future energy needs. By increasing capacity, the network is better positioned to support growing demand from technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps, as well as the connection of renewable energy sources, as Ireland continues its transition to a low‑carbon energy system," it said.

It comes as Chief Executive Michael Rainey confirmed there was an issue with the electrical grid capacity at the monthly meeting of Laois County Council on Monday.