Energising Belfast
Energising Belfast aims to improve the strength and resilience of Belfast's grid. A stronger grid will ensure the city has the clean energy needed to grow.
Project overview
Energising Belfast is crucial to supporting the city, now and in the future. We must develop the grid to meet future demand for electricity.
Our preferred option will deliver new infrastructure, including:
- A 275/110 kV transformer at Castlereagh Main substation
- Substations at / near Belfast North and Belfast Central mains
- A high-capacity underground cable connecting Donegall Main to Belfast North and Central mains
Benefits of the project
A secure, reliable supply
We make sure that everyone has power when and where they need it. This project will build a more resilient and reliable grid.
Preparing for future needs
The improvements will support shifting electricity needs in Belfast. In the future, the city will need even more electricity. It will support:
- Increased electrification of transport systems, vehicles and heating
- Higher demand from a growing population
- Development of housing and offices
- Renewable electricity use by large energy users
Delivering on climate targets
Our climate ambition is for at least 80% renewable generation by 2030. The project will mean that Belfast's grid can handle greater amounts of renewable energy.
Supporting economic growth
The project will support future investment in Belfast. Our plans align with the economic growth vision in the Belfast Region City Deal.
Where are we now?
We are now at part 2 of our 3 part process - Identifying where the project will be built. During this stage, we look at all locations where we may site the project. We examine these locations based on their technical, deliverability, cost and environmental merits.
Project updates
January 2023
We have concluded the first step of the consultation stage in part 2 of our 3 part process. This included public consultation days and engagement with key stakeholders.
Feedback gathered from this consultation period, will help to shape our final plans for the project, in tandem with further environmental and technical studies.
Feedback gathered from this consultation period will help to shape our final plans for the project. A further consultation period will follow once plans for the project are more developed.
Project documents
Have your say
Engaging with local communities is essential to our work. We always consult with residents, landowners and stakeholders in grid improvement works.
To speak with us about the Energising Belfast project, please contact us by filling in the contact form below.