Justification

Mullingar Reinforcement

Justification

This project is required to enhance security of supply to the Mullingar region. Demand in the area has placed continued strain on the transmission network, with the result that the existing 110 kV network is approaching its technical limit. A consequence of this is seen as a gradual decline in network performance and quality of supply – typically seen as lower voltages, and the increased potential for voltage dips, and a closer proximity to voltage collapse – which could damage customer equipment (depending on equipment type) or compromise customer manufacturing in the areas.

In the case of Mullingar which is supplied by only two 110 kV overhead lines, this proposed project will deliver a third circuit to supply power to the area. This is the standard approach for a town of Mullingar’s size and without this circuit there is a risk to supply in the region. For example, if one of the two existing 110 kV lines is out of service for maintenance and the second line has a fault, supply to the area may be lost. This would affect both residential and business customers. By adding the proposed infrastructure to the existing transmission network, it will significantly improve the quality, power flow and security of supply to the region.