Environmental Initiatives

Our approach to waste management is guided by the following:

• We aim to minimise the production of all wastes as far as practicable. To this end we take waste disposal issues into consideration in our selection and purchase of materials.
• We constantly examine opportunities to recycle wastes and seek to expand the use of recycled materials. (In 2006, ESB Networks reused 1329 tonnes and recycled 914 tonnes of wooden cable drums. This single effort diverted 2243 tonnes from landfill in one year alone).
• We dispose of all residual wastes in a safe and responsible manner (e.g. appropriate oil management systems and procedures are in place that minimise the risk of adverse environmental impact).

During 2006, the consolidation of service provision for the disposal of non-hazardous and hazardous waste was progressed and associated nationwide contracts are now in place. This initiative is contributing to the collation of more accurate waste statistics and facilitating the development of focussed reduction actions. We are currently developing a company wide waste minimisation/recycling campaign ('Wise up to Waste').

Prevention and control of litter external to occupied ESB Networks' premises is managed at local level. Litter prevention at unmanned electrical facilities associated with the Transmission and Distribution network presents an ongoing challenge given the large number, and geographical spread of the facilities involved. All complaints received regarding litter at ESB Networks' facilities are dealt with in a prompt and efficient manner. The general public and Local Authority interface is managed so as to demonstrate our commitment to dealing with this issue in an efficient and responsible manner. We are currently developing a Networks specific Litter Management Plan.

• An intranet based Environmental Management Bureau website for staff use has been launched, which includes extensive environmental awareness information and an "on line" Register of Environmental Legislation.
• Job aids developed for staff involved in design and construction to aid in conservation of human & natural heritage and reduce our impact on the natural environment.
• ESB Networks has launched an Energy Efficiency Programme across all its premises, the key message being "Let Us Play Our Part - Use Energy Wisely". Simple things like switching off appliances on stand-by and lights when a room is being vacated can help make a big difference.(for tips ref, www.powerofone.ie)

The distribution of electricity via the network inevitably gives rise to energy losses. Increasing the line voltage reduces resistance losses. ESB Networks' current major investment programme includes increasing the voltage of much of the rural Medium Voltage network from 10kV to 20kV operation, with approx. 70% at the higher voltage by 2010. New transformers installed as part of this upgrade are also more efficient The loss as a percentage of electricity distributed is forecast to reduce from the 2005 level of approximately 8% of GWh distributed to 7.5% in 2010, saving 132 GWh approximately.

Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is used in some of our high-voltage switchgear on the transmission and distribution networks. SF6 is a highly potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential that is 23,900 times that of CO2. It is used because of its very high electrical insulating properties and allows the switchgear to work efficiently and safely. We use monitoring equipment, controls and maintenance programmes to ensure that gas leakage is kept to a minimum. We report emissions to the EPA on an annual basis. In 2005 approximately 980 kg of SF6 was emitted representing 1.4% of the total inventory of SF6 employed.