CRU Outlines €14.1 Billion Investment in Irish Electricity Networks for Offshore Wind Expansion
The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) has outlined a significant investment package for Ireland's electricity networks, totaling €14.1 billion between 2026 and 2030. This includes substantial support for offshore wind projects, with €505.2 million allocated to EirGrid for such initiatives during Periodic Review 6 (PR6).
The CRU's Draft Determination proposes a baseline investment package of €14.1 billion, with €9.2 billion in capital expenditure (capex) and €2.3 billion in operating expenditure (opex) for ESB Networks. For EirGrid, the proposal is €1.4 billion in capex and €1.2 billion in opex. The high case expenditure estimate is set at €18.1 billion, accessible through a newly established Agile Investment and Monitoring Framework (AIMF).
The investment package aims to support Ireland's transition to a low-carbon economy and expand offshore wind development. Assuming one Phase 1 offshore asset transfer, €505.2 million is planned for EirGrid's offshore wind projects during PR6. The CRU's framework supports further expansion of Ireland's offshore wind capacity in subsequent periods.
The CRU is inviting stakeholder submissions on the Draft Determination until 11 September 2025, with the Final Determination expected in December 2025. The investment package is anticipated to bring modest increases in network charges for domestic customers, approximately €6 to €16 per annum over the PR6 period. The CRU's proposals, including the AIMF, delivery obligations, performance incentives, and an offshore price control regime, aim to drive innovation and efficiency in Ireland's electricity networks.
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