ESB Networks Crews Depart for Portugal After Devastating Storms Leave 1 Million Without Power
ESB Networks crews head to Portugal to help restore power to 1 million customers hit by Storms Kristin and Leonardo, departing from Rosslare Port.
Irish electricity crews are travelling to Portugal to help restore power to over one million customers left without electricity after Storms Kristin and Leonardo caused extensive and severe damage across the country.
ESB Networks has deployed teams to support E-REDES, the Portuguese Distribution System Operator, in restoring electricity supply and repairing infrastructure.
The first convoy of personnel and specialist vehicles departed from Rosslare Port yesterday evening, with more teams departing tonight. The personnel will work alongside local Portuguese teams to repair the severely impacted overhead line network.
ESB Networks will be supported by teams from contracting partners Conals and Gaeltec Utilities, who have longstanding roots in Portugal. Together, the combined teams bring extensive experience in major restoration operations and specialist capability to support the repair works required on the ground.
The deployment represents the latest example of mutual support between European electricity network operators during major incidents. ESB Networks has a long and proud tradition of providing mutual support to neighbouring electricity network operators across Europe and the UK during major incidents.
Ireland recently benefited from this collaboration when international crews travelled to support ESB Networks during Storm Éowyn. This collaboration has become increasingly important as climate driven extreme weather events continue to increase in frequency and severity across all regions.
