SONI, Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator, has launched its public consultation for the East Tyrone Reinforcement Project.

SONI manages the electricity grid to ensure that power flows safely, securely and reliably from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are also transforming the electricity system to deliver a cleaner, more economical and secure energy future for homes, farms, businesses and public services across Northern Ireland.

Like any piece of public infrastructure, the electricity grid was built at a moment in time. Beyond modernising the grid to support newer and cleaner forms of energy on to the system, SONI are responsible for planning grid upgrades to strengthen the existing network.

The Mid Ulster region hosts an expanding industrial and manufacturing sector; this sustained growth has placed increasing pressure on the electricity transmission system.

placeholder image — East Tyrone Reinforcement project will increase capacity at Dungannon Main substation to accommodate rising electricity demand. Credit: SONI

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The East Tyrone Reinforcement project will increase capacity at Dungannon Main substation to accommodate rising electricity demand. Not only will this strengthen grid resilience but once completed, the substation extension will support further economic development in the Mid Ulster area.

Chris McKeown, East Tyrone Reinforcement Project Manager, said: “With demand at Dungannon Main forecast to rise we are taking forward the East Tyrone Reinforcement Project to improve grid strength, capacity and resilience in Mid Ulster.

“SONI is committed to keeping communities at the heart of grid development, we are keen to learn from local knowledge and understand local concerns. We would encourage the local community to come along to our drop-in consultation event on January 28 at the Junction in Dungannon between 2pm and 8pm and meet with our project team who will be available to talk about the project and answer questions.

"For those unable to make the event we also have a dedicated consultation portal with information about the project Home | SONI Consultation Portal. We are very happy to welcome feedback on the project until 5pm on March 6.”

The East Tyrone Reinforcement Project is set to deliver:

- The extension of the existing substation compound.

- Establishment of a second 110/33kV bulk supply point, and

- Installation of two new 110/33kV transformers.