EirGrid to establish community forum for grid upgrade

EirGrid, the operator and developer of the national electricity grid is inviting expressions of interest from local community groups to join a community forum for the East Meath-North Dublin Grid Upgrade.

The proposed 400kV underground cable project will link Woodland substation near Batterstown, to Belcamp substation near Clonshaugh in north Dublin.

The purpose of the forum is to ensure that stakeholder and community views are understood and properly considered, and to provide feedback at key stages in the delivery of the project.

The community forum will also co-develop a community benefit strategy with local stakeholders.

A community benefit fund will be established, with funding streams including community, sustainability and biodiversity, with projects that can range from enhancing community facilities, to the setup of a sustainable energy community.

The forum may include representatives from local residents’ groups, community associations, along with voluntary and sporting organisations in the project area. Membership is also extended to local public representatives and Chamber of Commerce.

An online information evening will take place on Thursday, 14th July at 7pm to inform communities and stakeholders about the Community Forum and Community Benefit Fund.

Speaking about the establishment of the forum, EirGrid Head of Public Engagement, Sinead Dooley said: “The forum will advise what benefits should be provided for local communities along a route. Representatives know their communities best and understand the needs and priorities of people in an area.”

To register for this online information evening, which takes place via Zoom, on 14th July at 7pm, visit eirgrid.ie/eastmeathnorthdublin