A sustainability strategy for Ireland’s electricity network

The electricity system of Ireland is unique as it has no synchronous connections to other
systems, while the existing non-synchronous connection provides limited flexibility.
When coupled with a target of 40% electricity from renewables by 2020, exceeding any
other country, the challenge is truly striking. However, this challenge also gives Ireland
the opportunity to be the world leader in this area. The unique experience in solving this
problem will provide the technology and knowledge to harness renewable energy
sources globally and limit the dependency on petrochemicals. The continued
development of the electricity distribution network as a smart network is a critical
element of this process which spans electricity generation, transportation and energy end
use. This paper described the various elements of ESB Networks’ sustainability strategy
and the associated research themes being jointly pursued by ESB Networks, the Electric
Power Research Institute (EPRI) and the Electricity Research Centre, University College
Dublin.