Apply to Connect to the Grid
Getting Connected - Introduction
Who should Apply to EirGrid for a Connection?
The first step in connecting a new demand customer or generator to the system is to assess if the facility would be best suited for connection to the Transmission or Distribution System.
Demand Connections
In general, for projects with a total demand of less than 20MVA at a single location, a distribution connection should be investigated first.
Click on the following link for information on how to apply for a demand connection:
If you require further information on demand connections, please contact a member of the Customer Relations Team at +353 (0)1 702 6642.
Generator Connections
Typically Generation Projects
- Under 20 MW total export capacity at a single location should initially apply for a distribution connection
- Over 20MW total export capacity at a single location should initially apply for a transmission connection
For more information on distribution connections, please refer to the ESB Networks website or contact them at +353 1 850 372 757.
All parties applying to connect to the Transmission System must submit a formal application to EirGrid as the Transmission System Operator (TSO). Applications are processed through the Connection Offer Process as approved by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). This process is in place to ensure fairness, provide transparency and facilitate timely delivery of Connection Offers.
Click on the following link for information on how to apply for a generator connection:
If you require further information on generation connections, please contact a member of the Customer Relations Team at +353 (0)1 702 6642.
Examining Locations in More Detail for Transmission Connections
When a developer has assessed the initial feasibility of a project and has a location in mind, they may wish to establish the likely method of connection, connection costs and lead time for connection in advance of submitting a formal application. In addition, based on the location selected, a developer may want an estimate of the applicable tariff for Use of System and an indication of Transmission Loss Adjustment Factors that might be expected in order to fine-tune project economic models.
In order to provide such information to a developer EirGrid can carry out studies, charged on a cost reflective basis and paid for by the developer, as follows:
Pre-feasibility Study - is a desktop study, which reviews the proposed project/location for connection to the system. The report provides a developer with the likely connection method, indicative costs and lead-time for delivery and desired system capacity. The number of study variations and the extent to which indicative connection methods and costs are provided will be assessed when agreeing the study scope.
Generation Indicative Transmission Loss Adjustment Factor & Reactive Power Study - is a study which examines the proposed project/location and connection to the system for an indicative Transmission Loss Adjustment Factor (TLAF) for the project.
For further information on the above or to initiate these studies, contact the Customer Relations Team who will arrange a meeting to review your study requirements and establish scopes of work for one or more of the above studies. Once a scope has been established and agreed, EirGrid will produce a quote and timeframe for the completion of the study.