Irish state-owned electric power transmission operator EirGrid is starting work on a €$147 million electricity transmission project in County Laois, which will upgrade the electricity network across the midlands.

ESB Networks confirmed that preliminary site works will begin for the contentious 400 kV substation at Coolnabacky south-east of Portlaoise in advance of the construction work which will start at the end of the yea, reports Leinster Express.

According to Eirgrid, the substation is part of the Laois-Kilkenny Project that will enhance the quality and security of electricity supply in Laois, Kilkenny, Carlow and Kildare.

This project also includes construction of a new substation at Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny, a new 110 kV line between the two substations, and an upgrade to the existing Ballyragget - Kilkenny line. These works will begin later in the year.

The construction is expected to take three years to complete.

Source: Leinster Express