Eden Carnmoney Project

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.

The existing 110 kV overhead line from Eden (near Carrickfergus) to Carnmoney is now almost 80 years old and low in capacity. A replacement of the overhead line is now required. Due to urban density in some sections near Carnmoney and Carrickfergus the overhead line will be replaced with an underground cable in these specific areas.

SONI’s current preferred option will deliver:

• Replacement of existing 110 kV overhead line from Eden to Carnmoney substation with new higher capacity circuit;
• Some sections of new high-capacity underground cable near Carnmoney and Carrickfergus;
• Installation of a new transformer at Glengormley substation.

• Bolster security of supply in the Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey areas;
• Improve efficiency of the transmission grid;
• Facilitate greater amounts of renewable energy.