Picture/ESB
Woodland substation redevelopment plans are being advanced by ESB Networks and EirGrid as part of planned investment in the electricity system.
The redevelopment will allow the substation to accommodate three nationally significant grid projects while also replacing ageing equipment and increasing capacity.
Woodland 400kV substation in Co Meath is the proposed connection point for the Kildare–Meath Grid Upgrade, the East Meath–North Dublin Grid Upgrade and the North–South Interconnector.
The project will also strengthen network resilience and create additional capacity to help meet future electricity demand.
Supporting future growth
According to ESB Networks and EirGrid, the redevelopment will support an electricity system capable of accommodating housing growth, economic expansion and public transport infrastructure across the region.
Niall Whitmarsh, High Voltage Project Leader, Dublin North, at ESB Networks, said Woodland has played an important role in the electricity network for more than 40 years.
Woodland is one of the most strategically important transmission stations on Ireland’s electricity network, he said.
It has supported homes, farms and businesses across the east of the country for more than 40 years. This redevelopment is about investing now so the network can meet future demand, support major infrastructure projects and continue to serve communities, businesses and support economic development for decades to come.
Key connection point
Jason Kenna, Head of Network Projects Ireland at EirGrid, said the project would help strengthen and expand the transmission system.
We are strengthening and expanding the grid to support Ireland’s future needs, which includes reinforcements to the transmission system,” he said.
The work being carried out at Woodland substation will benefit homes, businesses and economic growth in the region and across Ireland, and enable greater energy independence.
The extension of this station will facilitate the connection of critical cable projects which, when delivered, will bring more resilience and capacity to the network both regionally and nationally.
He added that Woodland is also an important point for interconnection, with the East West Interconnector connecting there and linking Ireland’s transmission system to Britain.
Engagement with local community
ESB Networks and EirGrid said there has also been engagement with local residents and public representatives to help minimise disruption during the completion of the project.
The redevelopment forms part of ongoing investment in electricity infrastructure aimed at supporting growing demand and creating a more resilient and secure energy system.
