Overview

This page describes the process for connecting a new stand-alone commercial or industrial premises to the electricity network.

If the premises is not standalone, e.g. if it is part of a multi-unit development in a business park, you need to follow the instructions on the page for moving into a premises in a new multi-unit development.

How to get connected

Step 1:
Get an ordnance survey map and a site plan
Obtain an Ordnance Survey map (scale 1:2500-1:10560) that shows the location of the new premises.
Mark the location of the new premises with a red pen.

Obtain a detailed site plan (scale 1:100-1:500) showing the new premises.

You should be able to get both of the above from the builder or architect. Photocopies are acceptable.

Step 2:
Submit an application form
Complete the ESB Networks Application Form number NC3.
Download the Application Form NC3 (PDF | 110KB)
or
CallSave 1850 372 757 to request a copy.

Send the application form (along with all the required documentation) to the following address:

ESB Network Services Bureau,
PO Box 29,
Garrycastle,
Athlone,
Co. Westmeath.
Step 3:
Receive an acknowledgement

After we have received the completed application, the business and site details will be set up on our system.

You will then receive an acknowledgement with a reference number.

Step 4:
Receive a quotation and connection agreement
Based on the information on the application form, ESB Networks will issue you with a quotation.
See a list of all ESB Networks' charges

We will also issue you with a connection agreement. This agreement includes:

  1. The Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) for the new premises. This is an unique reference number that identifies the connection point to the electricity network.
  2. The Maximum Import Capacity (MIC) of the new premises. The MIC equates to the contracted electricity capacity for the premises based on information provided to ESB Networks. Find out more about MIC
Step 5:
Return payment

Post the payment and connection agreement (in the envelope provided) to:

ESB Network Services Bureau,
Garrycastle,
Athlone,
Co. Westmeath.

Cheque, postal order and bank drafts are acceptable. (No cash.)

Once these have been received, ESB Networks can commence construction work on the electricity infrastructure required for the premises.

Step 6:
Going live

There are some variations in the connection process depending on the size of the MIC.

For MIC less than 30kVA

If the MIC is less than 30 Kilovolt-Amperes (kVA), the registered electrical contractor who is certifying the electrical wiring in the premises must send the ETCI wiring certificate to his/her regulatory body quoting the MPRN and address.
Read about the certification process [link to 52]

For MIC greater than or equal to 30kVA

If the MIC is greater than or equal to 30kVA you must first register with an electricity supplier of the choice.
View a list of all electricity suppliers

The owner/occupier will need the following information when contacting a supplier:
  • The MPRN
  • The address of the new premises
  • His/her name and contact details

Please note that the registered electrical contractor who is certifying the electrical wiring in the premises, must send the ETCI wiring certificate to his/her regulatory body quoting the MPRN and address before the connection can be made live.
Read about the certification process [link to 52]

Once the infrastructure work has been completed by ESB Networks and all of the above requirements have been met, the new connection can be energised.

The electrical contractor is then responsible for making the power live in the new premises.

Application forms and other useful downloads & links

Duct certificate
In order for the construction programme to proceed, you must confirm that the service duct, meter cabinet and earth trench (where required) have been installed in accordance with ESB specification and are now ready. You can text the word DUCT and your MPRN to 087-7526666 to confirm compliance to this specification.

ESB Networks general conditions for connection (PDF | 141KB)
This document sets out the conditions for connection to the electricity distribution system. These conditions apply to all customers irrespective of their electricity supplier.

Read how ESB Networks' connection charges are calculated

Get more useful documents from the 'Downloads' page on this site

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