Sligo native Thomas Foody, from Enniscrone, has been appointed Director of Grid Network Delivery at EirGrid.

Foody previously served as EirGrid's Head of Connection Projects (Southern Region).

As Ireland accelerates its shift to a cleaner, more sustainable energy system, he is among those shaping a future in which secure, sustainable and affordable electricity serves homes, businesses and communities nationwide.

A Chartered Electrical Engineer, Foody holds a Bachelor of Engineering from University College Cork, a Master's degree in Project Management, and a master's in management from the Smurfit Business School.

Before joining EirGrid, he held senior delivery roles with ESB Networks and ESB Engineering & Major Projects, leading the successful delivery of complex transmission and distribution infrastructure programmes.

Since joining EirGrid in 2025, he has led the Southern Region customer connection portfolio and overseen the establishment of EirGrid's Infrastructure Delivery Office in Cork, strengthening the organisation's capacity to deliver critical infrastructure across the region.

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Speaking about his appointment, Thomas said: "I am delighted to take on the role of Director of Grid Networks Delivery at EirGrid during a period of unprecedented investment in Ireland's transmission network.

"I look forward to working with our industry partners, local communities and key stakeholders to accelerate the delivery of a resilient electricity network, one that supports Ireland's continued economic growth, enables the electrification of society, and advances our transition to a clean, renewable future."

The announcement follows EirGrid's recent launch of its Group Strategy 2026, which sets out an ambitious roadmap to transform Ireland's electricity grid so that every home, business and community is powered by secure, clean and affordable electricity.

The strategy outlines the most extensive programme of work ever undertaken on Ireland's electricity system, aiming to transform the economy and society through electrification.

Backed by an allocation of €18.9 billion from Government and the regulator for investment in the grid and network, EirGrid will deliver an ambitious programme through to 2030, with a clear focus on building infrastructure at pace and scale.

A key enabler of the strategy that Thomas will work on is "Building the Backbone: A Grid that Enables Growth", reflecting efforts to strengthen and expand the grid to meet future energy needs.

Commenting on the delivery of EirGrid's new strategy, Thomas said: "I'm delighted to take up this new position in EirGrid at this pivotal time as we deliver on our new five-year strategy".

"Developing new infrastructure, enhancing existing assets, and enabling the connection of new demand and generation across the country is key to ensuring we can continue to provide a secure, reliable energy supply to businesses and communities."