ESB Networks says work on controversial Laois substation imminent

Work on a controversial EirGrid substation in Laois is due to start imminently, the ESB Networks have said. 

The substation at Coolnabacky, near Ratheniska and Timahoe, has been the centre of a 14 year long campaign of opposition by a group of local residents. One of their key concerns is that oil from transformers at the station could leak, something they claim could pollute drinking water for up to 25,000 people due to the location of the substation on an aquifer.    

The substation is a key element of EirGrid's €110 million Laois Kilkenny Reinforcement Project. It is also the final piece of the project to begin construction. 

ESB Networks has said:  “the €110m Laois-Kilkenny Reinforcement Project (which was granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála in 2014 following an Oral Hearing) is a vital upgrade of the electricity system in the Midlands and Southeast. Significant reinforcement works were carried out on new and existing transmission assets in the region over the past number of years. ESB Networks has fulfilled all the pre-commencement conditions which accompanied the planning permission for Coolnabacky substation. 

We are now moving forward with construction of the substation, which forms the next deliverable in this series of transmission system reinforcement works across the region. Construction will continue in full compliance with the particulars of the planning permission.”

“This Project will serve to improve security of supply and reliability of the transmission network across counties Laois, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny and Wicklow. In meeting future demand for electricity, the project will facilitate continued economic growth in the region,” the ESB Networks said in a statement. 

Pictured above: An image of the project from EirGrid's website. 

“We have mobilised to site. Site setup is in progress and commencement of construction works is imminent,” an ESB Networks spokesperson added.