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NIE Networks has released its first RP7 Innovation Report, detailing the ideas and technologies it says will strengthen Northern Ireland's electricity network while accelerating decarbonisation.
The report outlines how innovation underpins the company's ambition to deliver a sustainable energy system that benefits customers, communities and the wider economy.
As more homes and businesses electrify transport and heating, and as additional renewable generation connects to the grid, the network must adapt. Innovation, the company says, is central to managing this shift, helping create a cleaner and more flexible system that remains both affordable and accessible.
Over the past seven years, NIE Networks has completed 23 innovation projects. It now plans to scale up its approach, moving beyond the adoption of proven solutions to the active development and trialling of new technologies.
One featured project involves using drones to install real-time sensors on Northern Ireland's transmission network. This marks the first time such work has been carried out on live transmission power lines anywhere in the UK, improving network visibility while reducing disruption and risk.
The report also highlights the value of collaboration, noting that innovation is most effective when organisations share learning, test new ideas and co-develop practical solutions. A recent stakeholder workshop brought together representatives from industry, academia and government to inform the development of new projects and shape the programme's direction.
Ciarán McManus, Managing Director of NIE Networks, said: "It's a pleasure to bring together our partners and stakeholders as we continue to shape the future of Northern Ireland's electricity network. Innovation allows us to challenge the status quo, rethink traditional approaches and develop new solutions that ensures everyone benefits in the move towards a sustainable future. By working together and bringing together a mix of perspectives, we can develop solutions that deliver a resilient, efficient and low carbon electricity network."
Looking ahead, NIE Networks will continue to work with stakeholders to identify priority opportunities, share insights and speed up innovation to support the transformation of Northern Ireland's electricity system. An open call for ideas is live on its website; to engage further, email [email protected].
