SONI is the electricity transmission system operator for Northern Ireland. This means we plan for the future of the electricity grid and operate it every minute of every day. We ensure that everyone has power when they need it at the most economical price possible.
To prepare for a clean energy future, SONI must make the electricity grid stronger and more flexible. The grid will need to carry more power, and most of this power will come from renewable generation that varies depending on the weather.
There is a need to protect security of supply and prepare for future increases in electricity demand. Studies have been carried out to assess the best options to improve the grid in the Mid Armagh area.
SONI’s current preferred option is to build a new second 110/33 kV substation at the existing Armagh Central substation. This new proposed substation will be supplied by a new overhead line from Tandragee and a new underground cable through Armagh City Centre to Armagh North substation.
This project will: