What does EirGrid do?
EirGrid operates and develops Ireland’s electricity grid. This includes interconnecting to neighbouring grids and running the wholesale electricity market. We ensure that everyone has power when they need it, at the most economic price possible.
The grid safely brings power from generators to the ESB network that supplies every home, farm, community and business in Ireland. It also brings power directly to large energy users.
As we look to the future, we are making the grid ready to carry 70% of Ireland’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. At present, only 36% of your power comes from clean generation.
Shaping Our Electricity Future
To achieve at least 70% clean electricity by 2030, EirGrid needs to add more energy from the wind and the sun to the power system. This means that Ireland’s electricity grid will need to carry more power from renewable energy sources that vary, depending on the weather, and this power will need to be carried over longer distances.
Beginning in March 2020, a comprehensive 14 week consultation process was undertaken, using traditional and innovative ways of engagement and participation. Gatherings were organised on a national basis, enabling industry, civil society and young people to participate. A ‘Deliberative Dialogue’ was set up, modelled on the Citizen’s Assembly. The final outcome was summarised in the publication of ‘A roadmap to achieve our renewable ambition’.
Read more about ShapingYour Questions
What does a System Alert mean?
When EirGrid issues a System Alert (previously an Amber Alert) there is no immediate impact for users of electricity. Instead, a System Alert warns of the potential for temporary electricity supply issues in the near future, so that our expert engineers and those in the wider electricity sector can take pre-planned actions to protect the integrity of the grid. It is a signal for all generators of electricity to make their facility available for use and not to put their facility at any risk of tripping. A System Alert often passes off without incident once a sufficient buffer between electricity supply and demand is restored.
Find out more about grid alerts
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How can I help?
Ireland is going to need more electricity, and it must be clean. EirGrid needs your support to help us get there. Take our climate change quiz to measure how green you are, and to discover your tailored climate action tips.
Behaving sustainably is just another trend to follow
