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Public Safety Warning: Avoid Fallen Electricity Infrastructure Following Storm Éowyn.

ESB Networks has issued an important public safety message following several potentially dangerous incidents where members of the public have unknowingly approached fallen electricity infrastructure. These lines remain live and extremely dangerous, posing a serious risk to life. If you encounter fallen wires or damaged infrastructure, do not approach them under any circumstances. Instead, report the damage immediately by calling 1800 372 999.

Restoration Efforts Post-Storm Éowyn

Storm Éowyn, which struck on 24 January, caused unprecedented damage to Ireland’s electricity infrastructure. At its peak, 768,000 customers were without power. As of 5.25pm on Monday, 27 January, ESB Networks has successfully restored supply to 564,000 homes, farms, and businesses, with 204,000 customers still affected.

Efforts to restore power are ongoing, with support teams from Great Britain deployed to the worst-hit areas. Additional assistance is expected to arrive from electricity network operators in Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, and France. Crews from less impacted regions in the south and east of Ireland have also been redeployed to assist in harder-hit areas.

Restoration Timelines

According to www.PowerCheck.ie, the vast majority of affected customers should have power restored by Friday, 31 January. For the remaining approximately 100,000 customers, power will be progressively restored over the course of the following week. Restoration times are subject to weather conditions and ongoing damage assessments.

Customers are advised to sign up for ESB Networks’ “Keep Me Notified” service on www.PowerCheck.ie for updates specific to their area. To register, provide your Eircode and associated mobile number.

Public Safety Reminders

1. Medical Devices: Customers reliant on electrically powered medical devices should contact their healthcare provider to arrange alternative solutions.
2. Scam Warning: Beware of scam text messages claiming to be from ESB Networks. Do not share personal information. Block and report suspicious numbers.
3. Report Damage: Immediately report any damaged infrastructure to 1800 372 999.

How ESB Networks Restores Power

Restoration follows a systematic approach:

• Safety First: Crews prioritise making fallen or low-hanging wires safe.
• Remote Solutions: Where possible, alternative power lines are activated remotely.
• Site Assessments: Network technicians assess damage before repair work begins.
• High Priority Repairs: Focus is given to high voltage lines that can restore power to the largest number of customers.
• Low Voltage Repairs: Individual homes and smaller clusters are addressed last. This process is time-consuming due to the scale of smaller faults.

ESB Networks Statement

An ESB Networks spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by customers, stating:

“We thank our customers for their patience as our crews continue to work late into the evenings under challenging conditions. While the vast majority of power will be restored by Friday, we are committed to working tirelessly to ensure all affected customers regain supply as quickly as possible.”

For updates and safety information, visit www.PowerCheck.ie or contact 1800 372 999. Stay safe and stay clear of any fallen electricity infrastructure.