ESB upgrade to support growth across east Meath

An electricity network upgrade at Julianstown is set to provide additional capacity to support the equivalent of approximately 2,500 homes across east Meath and the wider northeast.

ESB Networks has completed a major upgrade at Julianstown 38 kV Station, involving the replacement of two existing transformers with larger units, doubling their individual capacity from 5 MVA to 10 MVA.

The work increases the station's installed transformer capacity by 10 MVA, helping to meet growing electricity demand from new housing, businesses and the increasing use of electric heating and vehicles.

The station is located at Lisdornan, between the Bellewstown, Julianstown and Stamullen areas, approximately 3.5km from Julianstown village.

James Finn, Network Capacity Deployment Manager with ESB Networks, said the upgrade represented an important investment in the electricity network across the northeast.

“By doubling installed transformer capacity at the station, we are helping to ensure the network can support future growth across Meath and the wider area,” he said.

“As electricity demand continues to grow, projects such as this play an important role in strengthening the network, supporting regional development and enabling the transition to a more sustainable energy future.”

ESB Networks said the additional capacity was broadly equivalent to the electricity demand of around 2,500 homes, although actual usage will vary depending on household consumption and the uptake of new technologies.

The Julianstown project forms part of ESB Networks' wider investment programme under Price Review 6 (PR6), which will see €13.4 billion invested in strengthening and expanding the electricity network nationally.

The programme is intended to help meet increasing demand while supporting housing development, economic growth and Ireland's climate targets.