EirGrid to host survey and in-person sessions for Mayo electricity project

EirGrid have opened an online survey for communities in Mayo affected by the North Connacht 110kV Project.

The operator and developer of the national electricity grid, is inviting the communities hosting the upcoming project to have their say in shaping its delivery.

The project, which received planning permission last year, will see a new 110kV underground cable circuit between Ballina and Ballaghaderreen in Roscommon.

Recognising the importance of local communities in developing this critical infrastructure, EirGrid has established a €1.53 million Community Benefit Fund to provide direct benefits to community groups and voluntary organisations located or operating within a 2 kilometre zone of the proposed cable line.

To ensure that the fund is designed for the local community by the local community, EirGrid, along with fund administrators, SECAD Partnership CLG (SECAD) are inviting the local community to take part in a consultation process to give feedback on the needs of the local area.

The survey is now open for submissions until Friday, October 18, and is available online.

Drop-in clinics will also be held in the area to allow those interested to find out more about the fund and to get support in completing the survey.

These in-person sessions will take place tomorrow from 11.30am-1.30pm at the Mary Robinson Centre, Emmet Street, Ballina; from 2.30-4pm at Father Peyton Memorial Centre, Attymass; and from 5.30-7.30pm at Swinford Amenity Park, Kiltimagh Road. 

Sessions will also take place on Wednesday, September 18, from 10am-11.30am at Charlestown Arts Centre, Barrack Street, Charlestown

The fund, which is supported by a community forum of local representatives, will include community, sustainability and biodiversity streams, each of which will be worth €510,000.

It is expected that applications for the fund will open in late 2025.

Welcoming this next step, Senior Engagement Specialist with EirGrid, Avril Wilson, said: “Collaboration with communities and local stakeholders is key to these projects being developed, ensuring a resilient energy future for generations to come.”

Construction of the project is expected to begin late next year and will be undertaken by ESB Networks.

The development will ultimately strengthen the grid across Connacht, providing electricity capacity to meet increasing demand, and supporting economic growth in the region.

More information on the North Connacht 110kV project can be found on the EirGrib website.