A rollout of new smart ready electricity meters is set to commence across the midlands and County Cork later this year.

This meter upgrade programme will begin in September, with 20,000 meters expected to be installed by ESB Networks' network technicians and electrical contractors by the end of the year.

ESB Networks then plans to replace 250,000 meters between autumn 2019 and the end of 2020, with a further 500,000 meters each year from 2021 to 2024.

The initial rollout areas in the midlands include: Portlaoise, Portarlington, Mountmellick Abbeyleix, Mountrath, Durrow, Stradbally, Castledermot, Athy, Kilcullen and Baltinglass. Cork locations Bandon, Macroom, Clonakilty, Kinsale, Blarney, Carrigaline and their hinterlands will also benefit from the new technology.

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Welcoming the rollout, Environment Minister Richard Bruton T.D. said: "These new smart meters are an important step in our overall drive to switch to renewable energy sources and decarbonise our electricity supply. We now have a Plan in place to radically reduce our carbon emissions. These new meters will enable homeowners to make smarter choices to meet their needs, while saving money on their electricity bills and reducing their impact on the environment. The saving in carbon emissions associated with the homes' electricity use could also be very significant."

The next generation electricity meters are a key part of Ireland's Climate Action Plan 2019. Similar meters are currently being rolled out across Europe and internationally. 

ESB Networks is carrying out the upgrade programme on behalf of the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities, co-operating closely with the Department for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and with all electricity supply companies.

Paddy Hayes, Managing Director of ESB Networks, added: "Ireland's Climate Action Plan targets 70% of all electricity from renewables by 2030. Using clean electricity to power heat and transport will be key and these smart meters will ultimately support every household to play their part in Ireland's clean energy future. We will communicate early and often with electricity customers when arranging their meter replacement."

(CM/JG)