The smart grid will bring radical changes in Ireland's electricity system which will enable Irish consumers to better manage their electricity consumption, while also reducing costs and being less carbon intensive. This will be driven through a transition to a smart grid that is more responsive, more dynamic and provides customers with real options to manage their electricity usage and costs. The smart grid will also enable more renewable energy to be connected to our electricity system, helping to secure Ireland’s energy supply and reducing our carbon intensity.

Welcoming the report, Minister Ryan said: “Ireland has already begun to play a leading role in the development of the Smart Grid. Pivotal research is taking place, new skills are being developed and new technologies are being created. All of these things make Ireland the perfect test-bed and places us far ahead in the Smart Grid journey.”

Commenting, Professor Owen Lewis, Chief Executive, SEAI said: “Ireland is ideally positioned to lead the way internationally on the implementation of smart grids. We are known for our expertise in information technology, software and communications. This, combined with our abundant renewable energy resources, positions us to become a world leader and presents many business opportunities in the process. Achieving an intelligent electric system will bring significant benefits for consumers and our economy.” 

EirGrid Chief Executive Dermot Byrne said: “As a nation with a highly-skilled workforce, Ireland can be at the leading edge of developments in this area. Smart Grid technology has the potential to benefit consumers and create opportunities for jobs in Ireland.”

Smart grid development partners in Ireland include: Commission for Energy Regulation, Department for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, EirGrid, Enterprise Ireland, ESB, IDA, SEAI, Science Foundation Ireland and SmartGrid Ireland.