ESB says vehicle hit overhead powerline leaving nearly 1,000 properties without electricity in Portlaoise

Gardaí are reviewing CCTV in order to establish the identity of the driver who struck an electrical wire knocking out power in Portlaoise on Tuesday afternoon. 

The incident occurred at around noon when a high vehicle collided with an electrical wire at Bridge Street, Portlaoise. 

The impact caused a cable to fall onto the street striking a car before coming to rest on a footpath.  

A cordon was put in place and the road had to be temporarily closed while ESB crews made the cable safe and then repaired the damage.

ESB Networks is reminding drivers of the hazard posed by overhead cables. 

“ESB Networks can confirm that a vehicle with a high load pulled down an overhead line crossing one of the main streets in Portlaoise yesterday. 

In line with safety protocols, our control centre dropped supply on the associated Medium Voltage network as soon as we were made aware of the incident. The line was made safe immediately and thankfully no injuries resulted from what was potentially hazardous situation,” an ESB Networks spokesperson said.  

“The incident serves as a timely reminder to all – including drivers of high vehicles – to stay safe and stay clear of overhead lines. The fault occurred at 12:15 and impacted initially almost 1,000 customers in the area. Crews mobilised promptly and power was restored by 3:30pm. We apologise for the inconvenience caused,” the spokesperson concluded. 

Portlaoise Gardaí have canvassed CCTV form the area and are working to establish the identity of the driver of the vehicle. 

Gardaí, who say the driver may not even be aware that they struck the cable, are appealing for witnesses. 

They are asking anyone with information, dash cam or CCTV footage relating to the incident at Bridge Street in Portlaoise to contact Portlaoise Garda Station on 057 867 4100.