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Efficient, Secure, Reliable Electricity
The following outlines a selection of the projects undertaken by ESB Networks under the Network Resilience pillar.
Winter 2025 Grid Resilience Plan
Following a Governmental decision in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, ESB Networks was tasked with developing an Enhanced Winter 2025 Grid Resilience Plan. The plan was published in April 2025 and ESB Networks has continued to progress the various actions as set out in this plan over the past six months. The following report provides an update on the work that has been completed by ESB Networks in this regard.
Storm Éowyn Review
On January 24th, 2025, following a nationwide Red Warning weather alert, Storm Éowyn caused unprecedented damage to Ireland’s electricity network.
ESB Networks acknowledges the impact that Storm Éowyn had on our customers. The extensive power outages caused by the storm brought significant disruption and hardship to communities, businesses, homeowners, farmers, schools, emergency services, and community support organisations. ESB Networks, once again, extends sincere appreciation for the understanding of all customers during this challenging time.
Recognising that the unprecedented nature of Storm Éowyn required enormous effort from a wide range of parties, ESB Networks extends its sincere appreciation to all who supported the restoration efforts, including the dedicated staff, contractors, visiting utility crews, and partner organisations, whose tireless work and collaboration were instrumental in restoring power safely to all affected customers.
As with all major weather events, there are key learnings from Storm Éowyn. The following review of Storm Éowyn has been completed, and the report captures key findings and highlights the main recommendations for ESB Networks to implement in its future storm preparedness.
Review of Distribution Overhead Line Standards for Extreme Wind Events
In October 2025, ESB Networks published the ‘Storm Éowyn Review’ report. Among the key findings of this report was the recommendation for a review of the distribution design standards. In the wake of such a devastating storm which had significant impacts for so many customers, it is appropriate to review the current standards which are applied to distribution overhead lines. Using available climate data and future climate models, this review seeks to assess whether current standards are adequate to provide the required levels of strength on the network for major windstorm events.
This report is published in an interim status, focussed on addressing initial findings in the context of the significant wind speeds experienced on the network in Storm Éowyn. A final report will be published which will focus on changes to the standards in the context of climate change and future extreme storms that may exceed all historical records.
View Distribution Overhead Line Standards Review for Extreme Wind Events