Sustainability & Environment
For generations to come
Smart networks
Networks of the future
The smart networks of the future will have:
- Bidirectional power flows at different voltage levels
- Thousands of generators at customer sites exporting energy onto the system
Smart networks are simply a key link in the integration of clean and renewable generation along the electricity value chain from suppliers to customers.
We are committed to advancing this integration in ways that are economically viable and enhance security of supply.
Renewables and distributed generation
Delivering on Ireland's target of 40%+ of electricity from renewable sources requires over 6,000MW of renewable generation connected to the electricity networks.
Wind power
The national target for wind power for 2020 is over 6,000 MW. This requires considerable investment in Irish infrastructure, both in distribution and transmission.
The nature and scale of Ireland's system means large numbers of relatively small wind farms.
Approximately half total capacity will be connected to the distribution system, a unique development compared to most other countries.
- 1,100MW of wind plant is already connected
- 1,400MW of projects are at contract approved stage
- Projects totalling 3,900MW were recently approved by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)
ESB Networks Ltd has also planned a major capital programme as part of its commitment to this target.
Microgeneration
The national target for increased penetration of microgeneration with export facility is likely to result in significant numbers of small generators being connected to the Distribution System at low voltage. Electric Ireland supports this initiative by offering a tariff of 9c per kWh per kWh exported.
Other network advances
We have also made great strides in making our networks smarter through initiatives such as:
- Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
- Self-healing networks
Related links
For more information on this campaign contact: