About ESB
Our history, our people and our principles
ESB historical archive
About the ESB Archive
The ESB Archive locates, collects and preserves printed and other material relating to the Board's history. It reflects the unique contribution of the company to the economic and social development of Ireland over the past seventy years.
Archive content
The existing collection of archives consists of records and material from ESB's Business Units and the Corporate Centre. Material already located and deposited includes such important historical sources as:
- Material relating to electrical utilities in Ireland pre-dating ESB.
- Shannon Scheme Development.
- Development of Turf Stations.
- Rural Electrification in Ireland.
- Distribution Work Records.
- Marketing and Promotional Material.
- Photographic,film, and video collection.
Background
The Archive was established in 1991 thanks to the enthusiasm and foresight of a small number of ESB personnel who recognised the need to preserve for future generations the Board's commercial, social and cultural heritage.
Why it's important
From very modest beginnings, the Archive has become an important source of information on the history of electricity supply in Ireland from the end of the last century to the present day.
As well as reflecting the company's role in laying the foundations for Ireland's rapid industrialisation and urbanisation, the archive records to the enormous investment made by ESB over the years in developing a wide range of technical and other skills.
The material is testimony to the energy and ingenuity of thousands of ESB personnel and their contribution in helping to make Ireland what it is today - the fastest growing economy of any developed nation.
Who can access it?
The archive facility is a rich resource which can be used by those interested in undertaking research relating to ESB's work since its establishment in 1927.
ESB archive policy
It is company policy to develop and enhance ESB's archival collection "in a manner which safeguards the Board's commercial, social and cultural heritage for the enrichment of ESB and the wider community".
Related links
If would like to know more about ESB Archive and its work or if you would like to donate any relevant material please e-mail us.