Electricity Transmission Infrastructure Development - Roads Sector Engagement Framework & Interim Guidance

The Government’s ‘Climate Action Plan 2024 - CAP 24’, prepared under the ‘Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015’, as amended, sets out key targets for the electricity sector, including a requirement to “accelerate renewable electricity generation in order to reach 80% of electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030, through the expansion of onshore wind and solar energy generation, developing offshore renewable generation, and delivering additional grid infrastructure”. To achieve this target ‘CAP 24’ states: - “All relevant public bodies will carry out their functions in a manner which supports the achievement of the renewable electricity targets, including, but not limited to, the use of road and rail infrastructure to provide a route for grid infrastructure where this is the optimal solution.”

In recognition of the unique challenges presented by the accommodation of transmission network infrastructure in public roads the Department of Transport’s Regional and Local Roads Division has published the following two documents:

1. Electricity Transmission Infrastructure Development - Roads Sector Engagement Framework

The purpose of the ‘Engagement Framework ‘is to establish a clear and consistent engagement, consultation, and agreement protocols, between EirGrid, ESBN, and Road Authorities, for all EirGrid/ ESBN high voltage transmission network projects that have the potential to impact public roads.

2. Interim Guidance to Road Authorities (placement of Medium or High Voltage electricity assets)

The purpose of the ‘Interim Guidance’ is to assist Road (Local) Authorities, in their role licensing road openings or making submissions to Planning Authorities, regarding the proposed placement of Medium or High Voltage electricity assets, including ducts, cables and associated infrastructure under public roads. The ‘Interim Guidance’ are issued pro tem until the completion of procedures for the planning, regulation, construction, and management of Medium or High Voltage cables under public roads including associated ‘costs and liabilities’ and ‘enduring standards and protocols’– this work is currently ongoing