This project is now completed. It followed an EirGrid investigation of the electricity grid that identified weaknesses in the South West.
This project is now completed. It followed an EirGrid investigation of the electricity grid that identified weaknesses in the South West. One of these was the previous Tarbert electricity substation, located in Tarbert, Co Kerry. The former substation dated from the 1960s; as a result, much of the equipment and structures needed replacement.
We proposed a new electrical substation for the Tarbert area, as well as new lines required to connect this to the grid.
EirGrid plans projects like this so that every part of our network meets the required standard: A safe and secure electricity system. This development was necessary to resolve transmission network problems in the South West.
The previous Tarbert substation was fifty years old, so needed modernisation. Also, as the old Tarbert substation was on a peninsula, this limited our ability to expand its capacity on that site.
This project will support growth and development in the region and ensure security of supply for the future. A strong electricity network will help existing industry in the South West. This is particularly the case when this region competes for business and inward development.
Planning a new station for Tarbert resolved the limits created by the age and location of the old substation. It also allows for future energy developments planned for the region. This includes connection to the proposed Shannon Liquid Natural Gas Terminal.
In summary, this project responds to projected growth in demand from both industry and domestic users. It also increases the security of energy supply to the region.