South Kildare electricity line to be replaced
This photo is for illustrative purposes only
EIRGRID Plc has submitted plans for a significant upgrade of part of the electricity transmission network in Kildare, aimed at improving the reliability and capacity of the existing Athy–Carlow 110kV overhead line.
The recently granted development involves the replacement, or "restringing," and uprating of approximately 8.9 kilometres of conductor on the existing Athy–Carlow 110kV overhead line.
The project will also include the installation of a fibre communications connection to enhance network monitoring and operations.
As part of the works, 11 existing intermediate wooden pole structures will be replaced with poles ranging in height from 16 to 24 metres. The new poles will generally be between one and three metres taller than the existing structures. A further 12 intermediate wooden polesets will receive new crossarms.
A key element of the project is the creation of a new 422-metre bypass overhead line section linking the existing Athy 110kV Substation with the Athy–Portlaoise 110kV overhead line. This will require the construction of two new single-circuit steel angle masts, each up to approximately 22.5 metres high, and one new wooden poleset with a maximum height of around 23.6 metres.
The development extends through the townlands of Woodstock South, Ballaghmoon, Bennetsbridge, Castleroe East, Castleroe West, Crooket, Gorteenvacan, Knocknagee, Knockroe, Maganey Lower, Maganey Upper, Newtownallen, Prumpelstown Upper, Rosbran and Tonlegee in County Kildare.
The project forms part of EirGrid's ongoing programme to modernise Ireland's electricity grid and ensure the network can continue to meet growing demand.
