EirGrid roadshow hears Mayo can benefit from energy transition

Future-proofing the electricity grid of Mayo can attract industry and help achieve Ireland’s climate action ambitions.

The was the message delivered to a large crowd at the recent EirGrid Energy Citizens Roadshow event in Ballina.

EirGrid, the operator and developer of the electricity grid, held the energy information event to discuss the future of energy in Mayo.

Those in attendance at Great National Hotel Ballina also learned of Mayo County Council’s efforts to ensure a transition to a climate resilient and environmentally sustainable economy by 2050, while SEAI outlined how people can access energy upgrade supports and ESB Networks explained how smart metering can help people manage their energy consumption.

EirGrid’s Derek Carroll outlined plans to prepare Ireland’s electricity grid to carry 17GW (gigawatts) more renewable electricity by 2030, triple 2020 levels.

Carroll explained the potential opportunities for the local economy of Ballina and the wider area, with one proposed project currently awaiting planning permission which, if approved, would support the connection of new renewable energy, along with the growth in energy demand.

Speaking about the event, Sinead Dooley, EirGrid’s head of public engagement, said: “The large audience who took the time to come along to this event shows the appetite for information when it comes to energy and plans to strengthen the electricity grid in the region.

“Listening and engaging with the public of Ballina and wider communities of Mayo has provided invaluable insights as we work to develop critical infrastructure that will not only support greater energy independence, but will help communities to prosper and grow.”

Outlining the need for homes to be more energy efficient, Dr. Orla Nic Suibhne, SEAI sustainable energy community mentor, said heating accounts for 80% of home energy, with 30% of energy typically being lost through roofs and 30% through walls.

“Energy efficiency is your first fuel,” explained Dr. Nic Suibhne.

Gerry Noone, ESB Networks, told the audience that with 1.3 million smart meters installed across the country to date, consumers will now be able to access the information they need to make more informed choices about their consumption and the best tariff option for them.

Concluding the discussion before an engaging questions and answers session, Laura Dixon, climate action coordinator with Mayo County Council, informed the event that Mayo has been allocated €609,000 for direct climate action projects which could be used to develop anything from community EV charging points to community repair hubs.