East Tyrone Project
SONI have identified a need to improve grid capacity and bolster security of supply in the Mid Ulster area. This project involves extending the existing Dungannon Main 110/33kV substation.
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.
Benefits of this project
- When in place, the new substation will:
- Improve grid strength, capacity and resilience in Mid Ulster;
- Allow new connections to the grid stimulating economic development;
- Help meet increasing domestic and industry demand in the Mid Ulster area.
Where are we now?
April 2025
Following studies and assessments during Part 1, it is our preferred option to provide a second bulk supply point by extending the existing Dungannon Main 110/33kV substation.
Transmission Network Pre-Construction Project approval has been granted by the Utility Regulator and the project has moved into Part 2 of SONI’s grid delivery process. This which involves conducting environmental surveys and analysis, developing our design proposals, further engagement to gain feedback from key stakeholders / members of the public and finalising our planning application.
Tentatively we hope to hold a public consultation event in early 2026 and make our planning submission around mid 2026.
January 2023
SONI has completed Part 1 Engagement with initial meetings held with key stakeholders such as elected representatives and Mid Ulster District Council Officials.
In 2023, SONI will move to Part 2 Engagement and which will include public consultation for the proposed East Tyrone project. It will provide an opportunity for the public to view SONI’s plans and discuss them with members of its project team before any planning application is submitted to Mid Ulster District Council.
November 2022
SONI will only plan for a new grid infrastructure projects where we believe it to be absolutely necessary, in line with our 3 Part Grid Development Process.
We are at Part 1 of this process. During this part, we explore which technology will best resolve the specific need. In doing so, we will also learn more about the broad area where we are likely to locate new infrastructure.
We then narrow down our list of potential solutions based on several fact-based, objective criteria. We assess the viability of the technology, how practical it is to deliver, and how much it costs.
Your opinions and feedback are important to us. We always consider how new projects may impact individuals and communities, and we work hard to minimise this, where possible.
Contact
To contact us about the East Tyrone project, please email info@soni.ltd.uk. By post, please address to: East Tyrone Project Manager, SONI Ltd, 12 Manse Road, Belfast, BT6 9RT.