Dublin's electricity grid is set to undergo a major, multi-year upgrade to help meet government renewable energy targets.

This project will see EirGrid carry out public engagement and consultation as it works on feasibility studies, concept designs and planning for the project. A phased construction programme is not scheduled to start until 2024.

Mark Foley, EirGrid chief executive, said: "EirGrid needs to meet the growing and changing electricity needs of Dublin. This includes the electrification of transport systems, vehicles, heating and the development of housing, offices, and large energy users.

"We also need to accommodate new and clean sources of electricity, such as wind, to help Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future."

The installation of up to 50 kilometres of underground electricity cables across Dublin will form the centre of the programme. Some cables will replace ageing circuits, and some are new installations. There will also be new electricity substations and upgrades to some of the older substations.

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In common with most large urban centres, the electricity grid in Dublin is comprised of underground cables. While they have served the capital well, some cables are up to 50 years old and need to be replaced. In addition, new cables are required to reinforce the network.

To help minimise disruption and work as efficiently as possible, EirGrid is coordinating with a wide range of organisations, including ESB Networks, Gas Networks Ireland, Irish Water and Dublin Bus. This is taking place through the newly established Dublin Infrastructure Forum, which is meeting this week.

Mr Foley added: "We are now looking at options on how we may do this and what areas may be impacted. We know that there will be a considerable amount of roadworks needed to complete the works. We also understand that electricity infrastructure projects like these affect local residents and businesses."

EirGrid is hosting a series of webinars for the general public, community and business community over the coming weeks. From these, a community forum and business forum will be established.

Mr Foley concluded: "We will give back to communities as part of our community benefit policy while the works are being carried out. Our support will focus on issues of community, sustainability and biodiversity. We will be led by local stakeholders on the best ways to use the community funds set aside for these projects, so that directly-affected communities benefit."

Technical studies have identified that cables linking substations at North Wall and Poolbeg; Finglas and North Wall; Poolbeg and Carrickmines; and two cables linking Inchicore and Poolbeg need to be replaced. Furthermore, a new connection linking Carrickmines and Inchicore is required.

The studies have also identified a possible requirement for new cables to feed into potential new substations in the north and west of the city.