Important changes to planning law are taking effect as the Planning and Development Act 2024 is being commenced on a phased basis.

Training

Elected Members Training - January 2026
Electricity Transmission & Distribution: The Challenges and Opportunities

This webinar was hosted by the OPR and the AILG, in conjunction with EirGrid, the ESB and Laois County Council. Speakers briefed Elected Members on electricity transmission and distribution investment programmes, together with the associated challenges and opportunities arising in the delivery of the electricity infrastructure required to meet Ireland’s future needs.

The purpose of this webinar was to support Elected Members in understanding:

  • the difference between electricity transmission and electricity distribution
  • the remit and functions of EirGrid and the ESB
  • the role of electricity infrastructure in supporting climate targets, housing delivery and sustainable communities
  • the key planning and delivery challenges currently being encountered
  • the central role of Local Government and Elected Members in enabling delivery

Presentations were delivered by:

  • Jennifer Boyle (EirGrid)
    Senior Planning & Consents Lead, Public Engagement Team
  • Sinéad Dooley (EirGrid)
    Head of Public Engagement
  • Sean Mulvey (ESB)
    Manager Site Acquisitions & Major Projects
  • David O’Hara (Laois County Council)
    Senior Planner

We are happy to share the recording of this event, along with training materials, below.

Recording

Training Materials

Resources

Disclaimer

The Planning and Development Act 2024 was signed into law on 17 October 2024. The Act is being commenced on a phased basis to facilitate a smooth transition from the existing legislation to the new legislation. It is important to note that transitional arrangements are in place. This means that certain elements of the work of the OPR remain under the previous legislation during this time.

This website will be updated at the earliest opportunity to correspond with the commencement of the various Parts of the Act.

Information on the commencement of the Act is available on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website.