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 network between Tamnamore and Drumnakelly is heavily congested, and the current capacity of the circuits are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need to upgrade current infrastructure to increase capacity.
SONI is planning to bring forward the Tamnamore - Drumnakelly Project – a proposed circuit upgrade between Tamnamore (near Dungannon) and Drumnakelly (near Portadown) substations. This will include a new cable section to allow for the future removal of the overhead line through Killyman Village. The project will increase the capacity and efficiency of the grid and remove constraints in the west of Northern Ireland.
The project will:
To date approximately 1600 MW of renewable generation in Northern Ireland has been connected. This project will assist in allowing more clean electricity onto the grid, helping to deliver our climate change targets.
By opting to include a new cable section through Killyman Village, this will allow NIE Networks to de-energise and at a later date, remove the existing overhead line and associated infrastructure in Killyman.
The existing 110 kV network between Tamnamore and Drumnakelly is heavily congested and there is a potential of overloading, meaning renewable energy has to be constrained. This means all the clean energy that is available cannot be readily transferred, leading to cost implications for consumers.
The project will help to improve the efficiency of the electricity system, ensuring a more efficient and secure electricity supply on a sustainable basis. This will help facilitate economic growth and investment in the coming years.